“What a Ride!”: Shubhanshu Shukla Makes History with Axiom-4 Space Mission
In a moment etched into India’s space legacy, Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla has become the first Indian to reach the International Space Station (ISS) and only the second Indian in space after Rakesh Sharma—marking India’s return to human spaceflight after 41 years.
On June 25, 2025, aboard SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket, the Axiom-4 mission launched from Kennedy Space Center, Florida, with Shukla and three other astronauts on a 14-day mission to the ISS. In his first message from orbit, he proudly said in Hindi:
“Namaskar, mere deshvasiyon. Kya kamaal ki ride thi!”
Who Is Shubhanshu Shukla?
- Age: 39
- Background: Fighter pilot with 2,000+ flying hours, experienced in Su-30 MKI, MiG-29, Jaguar, and more.
- Education: MTech in Aerospace Engineering (IISc Bengaluru)
- Astronaut Training: ISRO + Russia’s Gagarin Cosmonaut Centre
- Call sign: “Shux”
Born in Lucknow, Shukla was inspired by air shows as a child. Selected as part of ISRO’s astronaut corps in 2019, he’s now the face of India’s Gaganyaan mission, set for 2027.
🌍 Why This Mission Matters
- India’s Comeback: First human spaceflight since 1984.
- International Collaboration: Mission supported by ISRO, NASA, and Axiom Space.
- Cultural Pride: Carried Indian sweets like moong dal halwa into space.
- Symbolic Gesture: “Tiranga on my shoulder tells me I’m not alone.”
What’s He Doing in Space?
- 7 ISRO-led scientific experiments
- Nutrition & space food tests
- NASA’s human research studies
- Live interactions with PM Modi, students, and space scientists
The Axiom-4 capsule, named “Grace”, is expected to dock with the ISS by June 26 at 4:30 PM IST.
Social Buzz & Public Reaction
Across India, schools like City Montessori School (CMS) held public viewings. Social media is flooded with tributes, pride, and historic comparisons to Rakesh Sharma’s flight.
Shux’s launch day song?
“Yun Hi Chala Chal Rahi” from Swades — perfectly fitting for an Indian making history in orbit.
Final Words from Orbit
“Together, let’s embark on India’s human space journey. Jai Hind! Jai Bharat.”
Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla has not only lifted off into space but has also ignited a billion dreams back home.
Disclaimer
This article reflects information available as of June 26, 2025. As space missions evolve, follow ISRO and NASA for real-time updates.
âť“FAQs: Shubhanshu Shukla Axiom-4 NASA Launch
1. Who is Shubhanshu Shukla?
He is a Group Captain in the Indian Air Force and now the first Indian astronaut to visit the ISS.
2. What is Axiom-4?
A commercial spaceflight mission by Axiom Space, in collaboration with NASA and SpaceX, currently in a 14-day stay at the ISS.
3. Why is this launch important for India?
It marks India’s return to human spaceflight after 41 years and sets the stage for ISRO’s Gaganyaan mission in 2027.
4. What is he doing in space?
Shukla is conducting scientific experiments, interacting with leaders, and participating in NASA-ISRO collaborations.
5. When will the spacecraft dock with ISS?
June 26, 2025, at approximately 4:30 PM IST.
