Indian Air Force Pilot Shubhanshu Shukla Reaches Space on Axiom-4 Mission
Indian Air Force Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla has successfully launched for the Axiom-4 (Axiom-4) mission, traveling to the International Space Station (ISS). Shortly after arriving in space, Shubhanshu released his first video message, sharing his excitement, experiences, and emotions. With this historic journey, Shubhanshu has become the second Indian citizen to venture into space.
First Message from Space
In his first video message, Shubhanshu Shukla said, “Greetings from space. I am thrilled to be here with my fellow astronauts. Wow, what a journey this has been. When I was seated in the capsule at the launchpad, all I could think was, ‘Let’s just go.’” He explained that as the journey began, he was pushed back into his seat and then suddenly everything went quiet. Sharing his first experience of microgravity, he stated, “I am floating in zero gravity and learning how to live in space like a child.”
Team Members of Shubhanshu
The Axiom-4 mission carries four astronauts. Alongside Shubhanshu Shukla, there is US Commander Peggy Whitson, a former NASA astronaut who has experience in three space missions. Tibor Kapu from Hungary and Slawom Uznański-Wiszewski from Poland are also part of this mission. The team was launched from Kennedy Space Center in Florida aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket.
Experience of Microgravity
Shubhanshu described that as they entered the microgravity environment, it felt like they had arrived in a new world. Everything appeared to be floating, and every activity, such as walking, eating, or even waving a hand, became a different experience. He said, “I feel like a child here. I have to learn everything, even how to eat.”
Historic Launch: A Moment of Pride for Indians
The flight was watched live by millions around the world. In India, Hungary, Poland, and the United States, watch parties were organized during the launch. People from cities like Lucknow in India, Budapest, Danask, and Houston witnessed this moment. Shubhanshu’s launch took place from the historic LC-39A launchpad, the same one from which the Apollo 11 mission took off to the moon in July 1969. It was a moment of pride for India, as Shubhanshu became the first Indian to reach the International Space Station.
Mission Delayed Multiple Times, But Spirit Undeterred
The Axiom-4 mission was initially scheduled for launch on May 29th, but was repeatedly postponed due to bad weather and technical problems. After nearly a month of effort, the SpaceX, NASA, and Axiom teams resolved the technical issues and successfully made the launch a success. This mission has added another golden chapter to Indian space history.
Shubhanshu Shukla: From Indian Air Force to the Heights of Space
39-year-old Shubhanshu Shukla is a Group Captain in the Indian Air Force and is one of the few individuals selected to be part of the Axiom Space mission after undergoing intensive training. He received specialized training in space in collaboration with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and international agencies. This mission is not only for him but also inspirational for the youth of the entire country.
