India’s Shubhanshu Shukla’s Journey to the International Space Station
Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla is preparing for a historic trip to the International Space Station (ISS) as part of the Axiom mission 4. NASA announced on June 24, 2025, that the launch is scheduled for June 25 at 2:31 a.m. EDT (12:01 a.m. IST) from Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The mission, a collaboration between NASA, Axiom Space, and SpaceX, marks a milestone for India’s space program.
The Axiom Mission 4 is the fourth private astronaut mission to the ISS, aiming to conduct scientific experiments and technology demonstrations. Shukla, a trained astronaut, will join an international crew for the journey. The launch was initially planned for an earlier time but was adjusted to ensure optimal conditions. This mission highlights India’s growing role in global space exploration.
Other African nations like Nigeria and South Africa also aim to expand their space programs. Shukla’s mission could inspire young scientists across the continent to pursue careers in space technology. It also showcases the potential for international partnerships in advancing scientific discovery.
The launch will be closely watched by space enthusiasts worldwide. NASA and Axiom Space are ensuring all systems are ready for the mission, which is expected to last several days. Updates on the launch and Shukla’s activities on the ISS will be shared as the mission progresses.