Shubhanshu Shukla Axiom-4 Mission Updates: Successful docking, safe return next challenges: Jitendra Singh

Union Minister Jitendra Singh remarked that he believed India's scientific capabilities had gained recognition due to space exploration. He noted that, until a few years ago, achievements in science rarely received attention in mainstream media, but that space endeavours had provided them with more visibility in the media.

Union Minister Jitendra Singh stated that one of the most significant turning points in India's space journey had been Prime Minister Modi's groundbreaking decision to allow private sector involvement. He described the change as miraculous and highlighted the transformation over the past 4-5 years, noting that there had been investments amounting to thousands of crores from the private sector. He projected that in about 8-10 years, this could increase to 40-45 billion US dollars. Singh emphasized that opening up the space for the private sector was a courageous decision that could only have been made by a political administration with strong conviction and willpower.

Union Minister Jitendra Singh stated that technically, the challenge of successful launching had been achieved. However, he emphasised that a more important aspect was the successful docking, which was scheduled to take place the next day around 4:30 PM IST, followed by a safe return.

Union Minister Jitendra Singh expressed his belief that the upcoming experience will be beneficial for future missions. He highlighted that this would be valuable alongside Chandrayaan 4 and the planned Bharat Space Station, expected to be established by 2035. He emphasised that the experiments conducted by Shubhanshu will provide insights into the necessary arrangements for extended stays in space or microgravity conditions.

Union Minister Jitendra Singh commented on India's Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla's involvement in Axiom Mission 4, stating that it has significantly enhanced India's global reputation. He noted that space exploration has become a symbol of this rising esteem, with Indian youths experiencing an increase in their standing when introducing themselves abroad, especially in contrast to 2014. He emphasised that the outcomes and discoveries from these explorations would benefit not only India but the entire world.

Additionally, he highlighted that India has developed a unique approach to utilizing space technology to improve living standards, extending beyond rocket launches to fields like agriculture, healthcare, telemedicine, disaster management, forecasting systems, and farm mapping. He concluded that India’s reach in these areas has been distinctive.

Union Minister Jitendra Singh expressed pride in Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla becoming the first Indian to visit the International Space Station. He noted that it was a significant achievement, particularly because the mission had originally been planned a few years earlier during Prime Minister Modi's visit to Washington, D.C. Singh explained that at that time, an offer had been made to include an Indian astronaut in the mission.

He mentioned that there were four Air Force officers who had already been undergoing training for Gaganyaan, and since Shubhanshu was the youngest among them, he was ultimately chosen for the mission, with Group Captain Prasanth Nair as the standby. Singh highlighted that the Americans were eager to have an Indian onboard, indicating their recognition of India's potential, talent, and capacity to contribute to space exploration.

Union Minister Jitendra Singh remarked that the recent space expedition marked a significant advancement, noting that after 40 years, an Indian astronaut had gone to space. He pointed out the considerable differences between this mission and the one in 1984 with Rakesh Sharma, explaining that, at that time, India's space program was still in its infancy. He mentioned that there was little to expect from India and not much to offer back then. However, he emphasised that today, India stands as an equal partner in space exploration, actively collaborating in scientific experiments and taking on a leading role.

He stated that the astronaut had been assigned to conduct various experiments, which had been categorized into seven groups. According to him, these experiments would benefit global space exploration programs, not just those of India, highlighting that India had now taken a leadership position and signaling its ascent towards a developed nation.

The president expressed that as Group Captain Subhanshu Shukla achieved a new milestone in space for India, the entire nation felt excitement and pride regarding an Indian’s journey into the stars. He noted that Shukla and his fellow astronauts from the Axiom Mission 4, representing the US, Poland, and Hungary, demonstrated that the world is indeed one family, echoing the sentiment of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam.’

She extended his best wishes for the mission's success, highlighting that it reflects the enduring partnership between NASA and ISRO. The president mentioned that the wide-ranging experiments to be conducted by the crew are expected to lead to new frontiers in scientific studies and space exploration.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his congratulations on the successful launch of the space mission carrying astronauts from India, Hungary, Poland, and the United States.

He highlighted the significance of Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla’s participation, noting that the Indian astronaut is set to become the first from the country to reach the International Space Station.

PM Modi said Shukla carries with him the wishes, hopes, and aspirations of 1.4 billion Indians. He concluded by wishing Shukla and his fellow astronauts every success in their mission.

NASA aims to dock the Axiom-4 mission's Dragon spacecraft with the Harmony module of the International Space Station at 7 AM EDT (4:30 PM IST) on June 26. Coverage of the arrival will begin at 5 AM EDT (2:30 PM IST) across Axiom Space, NASA+, and SpaceX channels. The Ax-4 livestream will showcase the events as the crew docks with the space station and is welcomed by NASA’s Expedition 73 Crew during a special ceremony.

On the launch of the Axiom-4 Mission, which is piloted by Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla of the IAF, Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh remarked that India's journey towards becoming a developed nation has begun through advancements in space. He emphasied that this achievement serves as a validation of the vision of Vikram Sarabhai and Satish Dhawan, the pioneers of India's space program. 

Dr. Singh noted that this validation has come under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi, highlighting India's transition from being a follower to an equal partner in various collaborations. He also praised Shubhanshu Shukla, identifying him as a key figure in the mission due to his role in conducting seven important experiments developed by Indian institutions, which will hold significant relevance for agencies worldwide.

Indian Air Force in a statement said that Group Captain Shubahanshu Shukla was embarking on a significant space mission, representing the pride of the nation by venturing beyond Earth. This mission was noted as a moment of déjà vu for India, occurring 41 years after Squadron Leader Rakesh Sharma first carried the Tricolour into space. Officials stated that this mission is not merely a task but a reaffirmation of India’s continually expanding horizons.

Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, the pilot of the Axiom4Mission, addressed the nation with enthusiasm, expressing his excitement about returning to space after 41 years. He mentioned that they were orbiting the Earth at a remarkable speed of 7.5 kilometers per second. He conveyed that the Tiranga on his shoulders reminded him of the solidarity he felt with his fellow countrymen. He emphasized that his journey was not just a step towards the International Space Station but a significant milestone for India's Human Space Programme. He encouraged everyone to feel pride in this achievement and invited them to join in the celebration of India’s space endeavors, proclaiming, "Jai Hind! Jai Bharat!"

The Dragon spacecraft has successfully detached from the second stage of the Falcon 9 rocket.

The spacecraft has successfully entered its intended orbit, and the docking process is set to begin, a procedure that will take approximately 28 hours. During this time, the spacecraft will connect with the ISS through a docking mechanism.

The Falcon 9's first stage booster has successfully touched down at Landing Zone 1.

The Space Dragon spacecraft has lifted off from Launch Complex 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, carrying the first Indian astronaut to the International Space Station. The targeted docking time was anticipated to be approximately 4:30 PM IST on Thursday, June 26, according to NASA's statement.

T-minus 35 minutes to liftoff. The propellant loading for Falcon 9 is in progress, and the Dragon's escape system is fully activated.

Shuchi Mishra, the sister of IAF Group Captain and astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla, expressed her pride in her brother’s achievements, highlighting that it was a moment of great significance for the entire nation. She shared her mixed emotions, noting that she felt immense happiness, love, and a bit of nervousness. However, she remained optimistic that everything would turn out well, expressing confidence that Shubhanshu would successfully and safely complete his mission. She described him as a significant source of motivation for the family.

Nidhi Mishra, another sister of Shubhanshu Shukla, conveyed her feelings of pride, emphasising that this moment was not just special for her, but for everyone in India. Although she found it difficult to articulate her emotions, she wished her brother all the best for his mission, hoping he would return safely. She mentioned how eager she was to hug him again upon his return after a successful mission. Nidhi recalled her brother's words about the importance of hard work and noted that his achievements were the result of immense dedication, which made her feel emotional about him at that moment.

This mission marks the inaugural flight of the Dragon spacecraft dedicated to this mission, adding a fifth Dragon to our fleet to support human spaceflight endeavors. It will be launched aboard the Falcon 9 rocket. More than five years ago, Falcon 9 successfully carried out our initial human spaceflight mission to orbit – NASA’s Demo-2 mission, which reinstated human spaceflight capabilities for the United States. Since that time, Dragon has safely transported 66 crew members from 17 different countries, and today’s mission is particularly significant as it represents the first national mission for India, Poland, and Hungary!

Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla is set to launch to the space station aboard a SpaceX Crew Dragon spacecraft, propelled by a Falcon-9 rocket. The launch will take place from Launch Complex 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the historic site from which Neil Armstrong embarked on his Apollo 11 mission to the moon in 1969. 

Exciting visuals from inside the SpaceX spacecraft are currently being broadcast on TV screens, showcasing Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, fully equipped and ready, alongside three fellow crew members for the significant launch scheduled today at 12:01 PM.

A UAE-based healthcare provider, Burjeel Holdings, is preparing to conduct an experiment to study glucose behavior in microgravity. This initiative, titled the "Suite Ride" experiment and organised in collaboration with Axiom Space, will involve astronauts on the Axiom-4 mission wearing continuous glucose monitors throughout their 14-day stay aboard the orbital laboratory.

The findings from this research could have significant implications for patients on Earth. Should they uncover meaningful insights into metabolism or the effects of microgravity, it may pave the way for advancements in treatment. Currently, NASA prohibits insulin-dependent diabetics from traveling to space, and although there are no formal restrictions for non-insulin-dependent diabetics, no astronaut with diabetes has participated in any space mission to date.

The mission control reported that the Dragon’s hatch was closed, all communications and suit checks had been completed, the seats were rotated, and the Ax-4 crew was ready for launch.

Tardigrades, commonly referred to as water bears, are tiny microorganisms that play a crucial role in an experiment aimed at exploring their revival, survival, and reproduction in the environment of the International Space Station (ISS).

These remarkable organisms are known for their resilience, having withstood five mass extinctions throughout history. Tardigrades possess extraordinary survival capabilities, enabling them to endure radiation, the vacuum of space, and extreme dehydration. Measuring between 0.5 and 1.5 mm in length, researchers believe that studying Tardigrades could provide insights into how we can better protect humans during space missions and enhance cancer treatments on Earth. Their exceptional adaptability may also help pave the way for survival strategies for future missions to the Moon and Mars.

'Joy' is a plush baby swan that symbolises grace and elegance. This zero-g indicator is designed for the Ax-4 crew and will serve as a physical confirmation of their transition to microgravity shortly after launch.

The swan, renowned for its grace and elegance, carries rich allegorical meanings across various cultures. In India, it represents wisdom and purity, embodying the pursuit of truth. In Poland, the swan signifies purity, loyalty, and resilience, while in Hungary, it epitomises loyalty, grace, and the beauty of nature. By selecting a swan as their zero-g indicator, the Axiom-4 crew honours the diversity of their cultures, united in the shared human experience of space exploration.

Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh announced on Twitter that Indian astronaut Group Captain Subhanshu Shukla had formally joined the other three crew members for the much-anticipated launch, which was scheduled for around 12:01 PM IST that day.

ISRO has curated a diverse menu of dishes for astronaut Shukla's journey to the ISS, featuring aam ras, moong dal halwa, gajar halwa, and a variety of rice-based options. The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), in collaboration with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), has developed these meals specifically tailored for astronauts on space missions. 

Originally intended for the Gaganyaan mission, these food items are now being provided to Shukla with the endorsement of NASA.

The Axiom-4 mission has scheduled a total of 60 experiments to be conducted by its four-member crew aboard the International Space Station (ISS). This includes seven experiments organised by ISRO and five in which Shukla will participate for NASA’s human research program. The experiments Shukla will undertake hold significant implications for future projects, such as the Gaganyaan mission and the proposed Bharat Antariksh Station.

Shukla aims to investigate the physical, cognitive, and physiological responses experienced in space, as well as the effects of continuous electronic displays in microgravity—a crucial consideration for extended missions. His research will address skeletal muscle dysfunction in space and explore therapeutic strategies to mitigate these effects.

In addition, Shukla will focus on the revival, survival, and reproduction of extremophiles like tardigrades, organisms recognized for their remarkable ability to thrive in extreme conditions.

Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla's father, Shambhu Dayal Shukla, expressed his eagerness for his son’s mission, which was set to launch around noon IST. He conveyed their delight at the upcoming launch and mentioned that their blessings were with him, as they prayed for the successful completion of his mission. He noted that Shubhanshu was fully prepared and expressed pride in seeing all the posters displayed in his honour. Shambhu highlighted that his son was bringing recognition to Lucknow, the state, and the country, and they felt immense pride in his achievements.

Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla's mother, Asha Shukla, expressed that it was a moment of pride for them and for everyone else. She mentioned that posters were being put up everywhere and that everyone was delighted about a man from their country, specifically from Triveni Nagar, reaching such heights. She conveyed their wishes and blessings for him and noted that he had the full support of their daughter-in-law, highlighting that her contribution had been crucial to his success.

Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla, who will serve as the pilot of the Dragon spacecraft, is a distinguished Group Captain in the Indian Air Force (IAF). He has been selected as one of four astronauts for India’s groundbreaking Gaganyaan mission, marking the country's inaugural human spaceflight.

Shukla began his IAF career in June 2006 and has since established himself as a highly skilled pilot. With over 2,000 flight hours, he possesses extensive experience flying various aircraft, including the Su-30 MKI, MiG-21, MiG-29, Jaguar, Hawk, Dornier, and An-32. His dedication and hard work culminated in his promotion to Group Captain in March 2024.

In 2019, Shukla received a significant opportunity from the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) to train for space travel. He underwent rigorous training at the Yuri Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Center in Russia, which spanned a year and equipped him to tackle upcoming challenges. On February 27, 2024, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced Shukla's selection as one of the astronauts preparing for the Gaganyaan mission, scheduled for launch in 2025.

During the Axiom-4 mission, he will utilize the call sign 'Shux'.

Four astronauts will embark on a journey to space aboard the SpaceX Dragon, a specially designed spacecraft that can accommodate four crew members and ensure their safe return to Earth upon completion of their mission. The launch is scheduled to take place from Kennedy Space Center in Florida, utilising a Falcon 9 rocket.

This flight will mark the inaugural mission for the Dragon spacecraft supporting this mission, while the first stage booster will be on its second flight, having previously launched a Starlink mission. Following stage separation, the Falcon 9's first stage will return to land at Landing Zone 1 (LZ-1) at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida.

The Axiom 4 mission represents a significant milestone for India, Poland, and Hungary, as it marks their return to human spaceflight after more than four decades. While this is only the second occasion these countries have launched humans into space, it is particularly noteworthy as they will collaborate for the first time on a mission to the International Space Station (ISS).

SpaceX announced that the weather conditions were 90 percent favorable for the launch. In a post on X, SpaceX stated that all systems were functioning well for the upcoming launch of the Ax-4 mission.