Indian Astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla Embarks on Historic Spaceflight with National Pride
Indian Air Force Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla was not alone on his journey into space aboard the Axiom-4 mission. He carried with him the hopes and pride of India.
Axiom-4 Mission: Following his departure on the Axiom-4 mission, Indian Air Force Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla has sent his first emotional message from space. He stated, “Hello, my dear countrymen. We are returning to space for the first time in 41 years. It’s a wonderful experience. We are orbiting the Earth at a speed of 7.5 kilometers per second. My tricolor is on my shoulder, reminding me that I am not alone; the whole country is with me.”
Shubhanshu Shukla further added, “This journey is not just towards the International Space Station; it’s the beginning of India’s human space program. I want you all to be a part of this journey. Our chests should swell with pride. Jai Hind, Jai Bharat.”
Historic Launch from Florida
The launch of the Axiom-4 mission took place on Wednesday at 12:01 PM Indian Standard Time at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Under this mission, Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla and three other astronauts – from the United States, Poland, and Hungary – embarked on a journey into space aboard SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket and a specialized Dragon spacecraft. Shukla has been entrusted with the command of this mission.
Family’s Reaction
Shubhanshu’s family is filled with emotion and pride at his historic flight. His parents stated that this is not just his achievement, but an achievement for the entire country. They expressed that their hearts are filled with pride today. Shubhanshu Shukla had previously expressed his gratitude to all his countrymen and everyone involved in the mission before his flight.
Launch Repeatedly Delayed
The launch of the Axiom-4 mission was originally scheduled for May 29th. However, due to technical reasons, it was postponed. Subsequent dates – June 8, 10, and 11 – were also set, but were repeatedly delayed. Finally, the mission was launched on June 24, 2025.
28-Hour Journey, 14-Day Space Stay
The Axiom-4 mission involves four astronauts from four countries – India, the United States, Poland, and Hungary. The spacecraft carrying these astronauts has taken off, and it will arrive at the International Space Station (ISS) after a 28-hour journey. The arrival is estimated to occur on Thursday evening around 4:30 PM Indian Standard Time.
All four astronauts are scheduled to remain at the ISS for a total of 14 days. During this time, they will participate in several important experiments related to science, technology, and space research.
