Space exploration is no longer just about rockets and robots. It is also about people, partnerships, and pride. For India, a landmark moment is approaching that links the nation directly to life aboard the International Space Station. India’s journey to the ISS is about to take a historic leap, and one astronaut – Shubhanshu Shukla is leading the way.
India Reaches the ISS: Shubhanshu Shukla Set for Space History
Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla is set to become the first Indian astronaut to travel to the International Space Station (ISS). He has been selected as the pilot for Axiom Mission 4, a major international space mission.
What is Axiom Mission 4?
Axiom Mission 4 is being organised through a collaboration between Axiom Space, a private US space company, and NASA. The mission will launch in May 2025 from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, US.
The mission will last 14 days and focus on:
- Scientific experiments
- Educational outreach
- Commercial activities in space
This mission marks a significant step in India’s participation in international space exploration.
Why is this important for India?
Shubhanshu Shukla is also part of India’s Gaganyaan Mission, the country’s first human spaceflight programme. His journey to the ISS strengthens India’s role in global space science and builds experience for future Indian astronauts. Shubhanshu Shukla plans to carry Indian artefacts with him to the ISS and even perform yoga poses in space, proudly showcasing India’s culture beyond Earth. He will fly with a team led by former NASA astronaut Peggy Whitson, along with astronauts from Poland and Hungary.
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