ISRO's Subhanshu Shukla: Why Axiom Space chose SpaceX's Crew Dragon space over Boeing's Starliner

Axiom Space has selected SpaceX’s Crew Dragon spacecraft to ferry astronauts, including ISRO's Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, to the International Space Station (ISS) as part of its upcoming Ax-4 mission. The decision reflects trust in Dragon's performance, especially in private and international spaceflight operations.

Since its first crewed launch in 2020, Crew Dragon has consistently completed missions for NASA and private partners without major setbacks. Its successful history includes transporting astronauts from the U.S., Europe, and other nations, establishing it as a dependable option.

Boeing’s Starliner, the other spacecraft in NASA’s Commercial Crew Program, has faced repeated technical issues. These include software bugs, valve malfunctions, and most recently, thruster failures that delayed astronaut return from the ISS — drawing criticism and concern.

SpaceX's vertical integration — designing, manufacturing, and launching its systems under one roof — gives it a key edge. This setup allows for quicker resolution of issues, faster preparation, and streamlined operations compared to Boeing’s reliance on multiple subcontractors.

Each Crew Dragon seat reportedly costs NASA and partners around $55 million, compared to up to $90 million for Starliner. For private missions like Ax-4, cost-effectiveness matters — and SpaceX’s focus on reusability helps keep expenses lower.

In August 2024, Boeing’s Starliner faced public and internal scrutiny when two astronauts were forced to extend their stay aboard the ISS due to thruster issues. NASA is now considering having SpaceX bring them home — reinforcing Crew Dragon’s status as a backup option for emergencies.

For Axiom Space, which seeks to build the first commercial space station and lead globally inclusive missions, Crew Dragon offers a safer and more trusted vehicle for hosting international astronauts like Shubhanshu Shukla. T