In a landmark achievement, Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla will embark on the Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4) on June 10, 2025. This mission represents a significant collaboration between NASA, ISRO, Axiom Space, and SpaceX, marking a historic moment for India’s space program.
The Ax-4 mission underscores the growing space cooperation between India and the United States, fulfilling the aspirations set by the leaders of both nations. The launch will take place from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida at 8:22 am local time, with the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft lifted by a Falcon 9 rocket.
Upon reaching orbit, the Dragon spacecraft is scheduled to dock with the ISS on June 11, around 12:30 pm. The crew will be commanded by Peggy Whitson, with Shubhanshu Shukla serving as the pilot. The mission will also include astronauts from Poland and Hungary.
The mission objectives include a range of scientific experiments, the promotion of STEM education, and the undertaking of commercial activities while aboard the ISS for approximately two weeks.
Shukla’s background includes being an Indian Air Force Test Pilot and Astronaut. He attended the City Montessori School in Lucknow and later the National Defence Academy. He is a combat leader and seasoned test pilot with about 2,000 hours of flying experience across various aircrafts.
NASA and ISRO are also collaborating on two joint science experiments and five space technology-based educational programs.