June 25th, 2025- a date to be remembered. Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, a test pilot, from Indian Air Force became the second Indian to travel space. He etched his name in history with this triumph. Specifically, Shukla launched aboard Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4), a private space mission bound for the International Space Station (ISS), marking a prominent milestone and reviving a legacy.
Building on the legacy of Rakesh Sharma, India’s first space wing commander, paved the way for Shukla’s achievement when he flew aboard a Soviet Soyuz spacecraft. Now, four decades later, Shukla is recreating history! In fact, his flight signifies a rebirth in India’s human spaceflight story, even preceding ISRO’s own Gaganyaan mission.
MISSION: AXIOM MISSION 4
SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket launched Axiom Mission 4 from Kennedy Space Center, Florida, on June 25th, 2025. Destined to International Space Station, astronauts from India, Poland, and Hungary-on board to showcase international cooperation. Over 14 days, the astronauts conducted challenging scientific experiments, international collaborations, and tech demonstrations.
Let’s appreciate Shubhanshu Shukla, who not only conducted experiments but also represented India’s growing space ambitions globally. He collaborated with astronauts from other countries, promoting space diplomacy.
This mission reinforces India’s commitment to space exploration, unlocks new avenues for astronaut training, and builds momentum for ISRO’s Gaganyaan mission, scheduled for 2026. It inspires the new generation and youth to pursue careers in space exploration.
As a testament to his dedication, Shubhanshu Shukla, a test pilot from the Indian Air Force, underwent rigorous screening and training under ISRO and international space agencies, including training stints in Russia, France, and the US. His hard work has truly paid off!