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<p><strong>Shubhanshu Shukla, Axiom 4 Mission Live Updates: </strong>Wednesday (Jun 25) saw the launch of a US commercial mission to the International Space Station, with astronauts from India, Poland, and Hungary aboard—a first for these nations in decades. Called the Axiom Mission 4, or Ax-4, the spacecraft was launched from NASA's Kennedy Space Centre in Florida at 2:31 am (0631 GMT), with a brand-new SpaceX Crew Dragon capsule riding atop a Falcon 9 rocket.</p><p>The vehicle is scheduled to dock with the orbital lab today (Thursday, Jun 26) at approximately 1100 GMT (1630 IST) and remain there for up to 14 days.</p><h2><strong>Who are the astronauts aboard the Axiom-4 mission?</strong></h2><p>Aboard the spacecraft are pilot Shubhanshu Shukla of India; mission specialists Slawosz Uznanski-Wisniewski of Poland and Tibor Kapu of Hungary; and commander Peggy Whitson of the United States, a former NASA astronaut who now works for the company Axiom Space.</p><h2><strong>Shubhanshu Shukla becomes first Indian in space in 40 years</strong></h2><p>Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla has become the first Indian to reach space in 40 years and the first Indian astronaut to pilot a private mission to the ISS, where he will play a crucial role.</p><p>Shukla will conduct experiments, support international research, and engage with Indian students during the Axiom-4 mission.</p><h2><strong>Stay connected to WION for all the LIVE updates of the Axiom 4 Mission</strong></h2>

<p>&lt;blockquote class="twitter-tweet"&gt;&lt;p lang="en" dir="ltr"&gt;&amp;quot;It is a privilege to get a chance to see the Earth from a vantage point. It has been a wonderful ride. It has been great,&amp;quot; says Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla, as the Axiom-4 crew arrives at the International Space Station (ISS)&lt;br&gt;.&lt;br&gt;.&lt;br&gt;.&lt;br&gt;Video: NASA &lt;a href="https://t.co/cOMsufIMAX"&gt;pic.twitter.com/cOMsufIMAX&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&amp;mdash; WION (@WIONews) &lt;a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1938238401498779831?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;June 26, 2025&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/blockquote&gt; &lt;script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"&gt;&lt;/script&gt;</p>

WATCH | Shubhanshu Shukla addresses from ISS

<p>Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla says a privilege to be astronaut number 634.</p><p>“It is a privilege to get a chance to see the earth from a vantage point. It has been a wonderful ride. It has been great. I was looking forward to come to space. It is something to look forward to. But the minute I entered the International Space Station… this crew (points at the Expedition-73 crew already aboard the ISS) made me feel so welcome. You literally opened the doors to your house for us. It was fantastic. I feel even better. Whatever expectations I had before coming here were surpassed by the view, of course — that’s a big part of it — but you guys as well. So, thank you so much," he said.</p><p>“This was fantastic. This was wonderful and I am very confident that the next 14 days are going to be amazing doing — as you said — advancing science and research and working together. Thank you so much.”</p>

'Been a wonderful ride': Shubhanshu Shukla's first remarks on ISS

<p>Expedition 73 astronauts welcome Ax-4 crew to ISS. Ax-4 Commander Peggy Whitson said, “We appreciate being invited in and you guys are exceptional host. We look forward to getting a lot of work done with you guys.”</p>

Expedition 73 astronauts formally welcome Ax-4 crew to ISS

<p>&lt;blockquote class="twitter-tweet"&gt;&lt;p lang="en" dir="ltr"&gt;Welcome aboard!&lt;br&gt;&lt;br&gt;Axiom-4 crew, including Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla, enters International Space Station (ISS)&lt;br&gt;.&lt;br&gt;.&lt;br&gt;.&lt;br&gt;.&lt;br&gt;Video: NASA/ANI &lt;a href="https://t.co/ueoEDovtHy"&gt;pic.twitter.com/ueoEDovtHy&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&amp;mdash; WION (@WIONews) &lt;a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1938222211363704878?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;June 26, 2025&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/blockquote&gt; &lt;script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"&gt;&lt;/script&gt;</p>

WATCH | Axiom-4 crew, including Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla, enters ISS

<p>Axiom-4 crew has entered the International Space Station. The ISS crew welcomes Shubhanshu Shukla, Slawosz Uznanski-Wisniewski, Tibor Kapu, and Peggy Whitson aboard ISS.</p>

Axiom-4 crew enters International Space Station

<p>Hatch is open between the ISS and the Dragon capsule. The astronauts will soon enter the space station.</p>

Hatch opens between ISS and Dragon capsule

<p>The passage between the ISS and the capsule is exposed to space vacuum. Before opening the hatch, the astronauts ensure that the pressure between the capsule and the space station is brought to normal. The crew aboard the ISS also ensure there is no leakage before proceeding to open the hatch.</p>

What procedure do astronauts undertake before opening hatch?

<p>The hatch opening procedure is underway. The hatch will open shortly, after which the Axiom-4 crew can enter the International Space Station.&nbsp;</p>

Hatch opening procedure ongoing

<p>The connection has been established between the Dragon crew capsule and the space station. The crew aboard the ISS is expected to formally welcome the Axiom-4 crew around 8:35 am CT (7:05 pm IST).</p>

Connection established between Dragon Crew capsule and ISS

<p>The docking of the SpaceX Dragon capsule has been completed. The four astronauts aboard are now taking their spacesuit off and will enter the space station shortly.&nbsp;</p>

Astronauts taking off spacesuits

<p>&lt;blockquote class="twitter-tweet"&gt;&lt;p lang="en" dir="ltr"&gt;Axiom-4 successfully docks with ISS&lt;br&gt;&lt;br&gt;Next, the astronauts will open the hatch and greet Expedition 73 crew&lt;br&gt;.&lt;br&gt;.&lt;br&gt;.&lt;br&gt;.&lt;a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WIONuncut?src=hash&amp;amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;#WIONuncut&lt;/a&gt; &lt;a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Axiom4Mission?src=hash&amp;amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;#Axiom4Mission&lt;/a&gt; &lt;a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NASA?src=hash&amp;amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;#NASA&lt;/a&gt; &lt;a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ShubhanshuShukla?src=hash&amp;amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;#ShubhanshuShukla&lt;/a&gt; &lt;a href="https://t.co/KtsTDFfLCf"&gt;pic.twitter.com/KtsTDFfLCf&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&amp;mdash; WION (@WIONews) &lt;a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1938190300037714189?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;June 26, 2025&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/blockquote&gt; &lt;script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"&gt;&lt;/script&gt;</p>

WATCH | SpaceX Dragon capsule docking at ISS

<p>SpaceX confirms docking of the Dragon capsule with the Axiom-4 crew at the ISS. The astronauts are now conducting final checks. The hatch opening process will begin shortly after which the astronauts will enter the ISS.</p>

SpaceX Dragon capsule with Axiom-4 crew completes docking at ISS

<p>SpaceX Dragon with Axiom-4 crew approaches ISS for docking above the Indian Ocean. The vehicle is scheduled to dock with the orbital lab today (Thursday, Jun 26) at approximately 1100 GMT (1630 IST) and remain there for up to 14 days.</p><p>&lt;blockquote class="twitter-tweet"&gt;&lt;p lang="en" dir="ltr"&gt;SpaceX Dragon with Axiom-4 crew approaches ISS for docking above Indian Ocean&lt;br&gt;.&lt;br&gt;.&lt;br&gt;.&lt;br&gt;.&lt;a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ShubhanshuShukla?src=hash&amp;amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;#ShubhanshuShukla&lt;/a&gt; &lt;a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WIONUncut?src=hash&amp;amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;#WIONUncut&lt;/a&gt; &lt;a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Axiom4Mission?src=hash&amp;amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;#Axiom4Mission&lt;/a&gt; &lt;a href="https://t.co/351HaUMwn4"&gt;pic.twitter.com/351HaUMwn4&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&amp;mdash; WION (@WIONews) &lt;a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1938182259393311108?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;June 26, 2025&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/blockquote&gt; &lt;script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"&gt;&lt;/script&gt;</p>

WATCH | SpaceX Dragon with Axiom-4 crew approaches ISS for docking above Indian Ocean

<p>SpaceX launched Axiom Space's Ax-4 mission on June 25, and with it India once again entered history books as IAF Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla is one of the crew members onboard.&nbsp;</p><p>NASA astronaut Peggy Whitson and two others - Poland's Tibor Kapu and Hungary's Sławosz Uznański-Wiśniewski, acting as mission specialists - are on the Dragon capsule taking them to the International Space Station. It lifted off from NASA's Kennedy Space Center atop the Falcon 9 rocket.&nbsp;</p><p>Right before the Dragon spacecraft was about to separate from Falcon 9's second stage, Whitson gave a speech and announced the name of the Dragon spacecraft her crew was aboard.</p><p>She revealed that it was named "Grace", detailing why the name was chosen. "We had an incredible ride uphill, and we now set our course for the International Space Station aboard the newest member of the Dragon fleet — our spacecraft, 'Grace.'&nbsp;</p><p>Grace is more than a name," Whitson said. The veteran revealed that the name held double significance - the graceful movement, and "grace", as in "an act of goodwill."</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/why-is-shubhanshu-shukla-s-ax-4-dragon-capsule-named-grace-nasa-astronaut-reveals-two-reasons-1750926301881">Read more here.</a></p>

Why is Shubhanshu Shukla's Ax-4 Dragon capsule named Grace?

<p>India's space agency, ISRO, sees this flight as a key stepping stone toward its own maiden crewed mission, planned for 2027 under the Gaganyaan program, meaning "sky craft."&nbsp;</p><p>In a message sent just after liftoff, Shukla, in Hindi, said, "What a fantastic ride…This isn't just the start of my journey to the International Space Station – it's the beginning of India's human space program."</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

India's human space programme

<p>With this mission, Shubhanshu Shukla has become the first Indian in space since Rakesh Sharma, an air force pilot who travelled to the Salyut 7 space station in 1984 as part of a Soviet-led initiative to help allied countries access space.</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

Why is Shubhanshu Shukla's participation in Axiom-4  big deal for India?

<p>Aboard the spacecraft are pilot Shubhanshu Shukla of India; mission specialists Slawosz Uznanski-Wisniewski of Poland and Tibor Kapu of Hungary; and commander Peggy Whitson of the United States, a former NASA astronaut who now works for the company Axiom Space.</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

Who are the astronauts aboard the Axiom-4 mission?

Shubhanshu Shukla, Axiom 4 Mission Live Updates: The spacecraft carrying astronauts Shubhanshu Shukla of India; mission specialists Slawosz Uznanski-Wisniewski of Poland and Tibor Kapu of Hungary; and commander Peggy Whitson of the United States will dock at ISS soon. LIVE Updates here

Shubhanshu Shukla, Axiom 4 Mission Live Updates: Wednesday (Jun 25) saw the launch of a US commercial mission to the International Space Station, with astronauts from India, Poland, and Hungary aboard—a first for these nations in decades. Called the Axiom Mission 4, or Ax-4, the spacecraft was launched from NASA's Kennedy Space Centre in Florida at 2:31 am (0631 GMT), with a brand-new SpaceX Crew Dragon capsule riding atop a Falcon 9 rocket. The vehicle is scheduled to dock with the orbital lab today (Thursday, Jun 26) at approximately 1100 GMT (1630 IST) and remain there for up to 14 days. Who are the astronauts aboard the Axiom-4 mission? Aboard the spacecraft are pilot Shubhanshu Shukla of India; mission specialists Slawosz Uznanski-Wisniewski of Poland and Tibor Kapu of Hungary; and commander Peggy Whitson of the United States, a former NASA astronaut who now works for the company Axiom Space. Shubhanshu Shukla becomes first Indian in space in 40 years Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla has become the first Indian to reach space in 40 years and the first Indian astronaut to pilot a private mission to the ISS, where he will play a crucial role. Shukla will conduct experiments, support international research, and engage with Indian students during the Axiom-4 mission. Stay connected to WION for all the LIVE updates of the Axiom 4 Mission

<p>Shubhanshu Shukla, Axiom 4 Mission Live Updates: The spacecraft carrying astronauts Shubhanshu Shukla of India; mission specialists Slawosz Uznanski-Wisniewski of Poland and Tibor Kapu of Hungary; and commander Peggy Whitson of the United States will dock at ISS soon. LIVE Updates here</p>

HIGHLIGHTS | Axiom 4 Mission Landing: Shubhanshu Shukla makes first remarks on ISS, says 'been a wonderful ride'

<p>SpaceX launched Axiom Space's Ax-4 mission on June 25, and with it India once again entered history books as IAF Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla is one of the crew members onboard. NASA astronaut Peggy Whitson and two others - Poland's Tibor Kapu and Hungary's Sławosz Uznański-Wiśniewski, acting as mission specialists - are on the Dragon capsule taking them to the International Space Station. It lifted off from NASA's Kennedy Space Center atop the Falcon 9 rocket. Right before the Dragon spacecraft was about to separate from Falcon 9's second stage, Whitson gave a speech and announced the name of the Dragon spacecraft her crew was aboard.</p><p>She revealed that it was named "Grace", detailing why the name was chosen. "We had an incredible ride uphill, and we now set our course for the International Space Station aboard the newest member of the Dragon fleet — our spacecraft, 'Grace.' Grace is more than a name," Whitson said. The veteran revealed that the name held double significance - the graceful movement, and "grace", as in "an act of goodwill."</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/shubhanshu-shukla-axiom-4-spacex-dragon-experience-updates-from-space-iss-1750922045064"><strong>'I am sleeping a lot': Shubhanshu Shukla says he did not enjoy being shot into 'silence of vacuum'</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2><strong>Baby swan ‘Joy’ on Axiom-4 mission tells about zero gravity</strong></h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"It reflects the elegance with which we move through space against the backdrop of Earth. It speaks to the refinement of our mission, the harmony of science and spirit, and the unmerited favor we carry with humility," Whitson said. "Grace reminds us that spaceflight is not just a feat of engineering, but an act of goodwill - for the benefit of every human, everywhere," she added.</p><p>Whitson also showed a plush toy swan, named "Joy". The baby swan served as the zero-g indicator on the Ax-4 mission. She said, the swan was "a symbol of beauty, unity, and the shared dreams that lift us beyond our world. Joy inspires us to look outward with wonder and inward with hope."</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/-namaskar-india-s-shubhanshu-shukla-new-message-for-indians-from-axiom-4-ahead-of-landing-watch-1750921692056"><strong>'Namaskar...': India's Shubhanshu Shukla sends new message for Indians from Axiom-4 ahead of docking - Watch</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2><strong>Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla on baby swan and Grace</strong></h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla later said in a livestream for Axiom that swans hold significance in Indian tradition as well. &nbsp;"Swan symbolises wisdom. It also has the ability to discern what should be focused on and what should not. We all have symbolism in Poland, Hungary, and India. It has more meaning than one would think," the 39-year-old said.</p><p>Whitson further elaborated on the baby swan toy, saying, "Together, Grace and Joy embody the essence of this mission: to explore with purpose, to connect with compassion, and to dream without limits. As we glide through space, may we carry with us the spirit of Grace, the lightness of Joy, and the boundless possibilities that await us."</p><p>The SpaceX capsule Grace will dock with the International Space Station at 4:30 pm IST on Thursday. The crew will conduct more than 60 scientific experiments focused on human research, biological, and material sciences and more in the 15 days they will spend at the orbiting space observatory.<br>&nbsp;</p>

Axiom Spaces Ax 4 mission is being carried out on a SpaceX Dragon capsule. The capsule has a name and NASA astronaut Peggy Whitson revealed it before the Dragon spacecraft separated from Falcon 9s second stage. Here is why it has been named Grace.

SpaceX launched Axiom Space's Ax-4 mission on June 25, and with it India once again entered history books as IAF Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla is one of the crew members onboard. NASA astronaut Peggy Whitson and two others - Poland's Tibor Kapu and Hungary's Sławosz Uznański-Wiśniewski, acting as mission specialists - are on the Dragon capsule taking them to the International Space Station. It lifted off from NASA's Kennedy Space Center atop the Falcon 9 rocket. Right before the Dragon spacecraft was about to separate from Falcon 9's second stage, Whitson gave a speech and announced the name of the Dragon spacecraft her crew was aboard. She revealed that it was named "Grace", detailing why the name was chosen. "We had an incredible ride uphill, and we now set our course for the International Space Station aboard the newest member of the Dragon fleet — our spacecraft, 'Grace.' Grace is more than a name," Whitson said. The veteran revealed that the name held double significance - the graceful movement, and "grace", as in "an act of goodwill." Also Read: 'I am sleeping a lot': Shubhanshu Shukla says he did not enjoy being shot into 'silence of vacuum' Baby swan ‘Joy’ on Axiom-4 mission tells about zero gravity "It reflects the elegance with which we move through space against the backdrop of Earth. It speaks to the refinement of our mission, the harmony of science and spirit, and the unmerited favor we carry with humility," Whitson said. "Grace reminds us that spaceflight is not just a feat of engineering, but an act of goodwill - for the benefit of every human, everywhere," she added. Whitson also showed a plush toy swan, named "Joy". The baby swan served as the zero-g indicator on the Ax-4 mission. She said, the swan was "a symbol of beauty, unity, and the shared dreams that lift us beyond our world. Joy inspires us to look outward with wonder and inward with hope." Also Read: 'Namaskar...': India's Shubhanshu Shukla sends new message for Indians from Axiom-4 ahead of docking - Watch Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla on baby swan and Grace Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla later said in a livestream for Axiom that swans hold significance in Indian tradition as well. "Swan symbolises wisdom. It also has the ability to discern what should be focused on and what should not. We all have symbolism in Poland, Hungary, and India. It has more meaning than one would think," the 39-year-old said. Whitson further elaborated on the baby swan toy, saying, "Together, Grace and Joy embody the essence of this mission: to explore with purpose, to connect with compassion, and to dream without limits. As we glide through space, may we carry with us the spirit of Grace, the lightness of Joy, and the boundless possibilities that await us." The SpaceX capsule Grace will dock with the International Space Station at 4:30 pm IST on Thursday. The crew will conduct more than 60 scientific experiments focused on human research, biological, and material sciences and more in the 15 days they will spend at the orbiting space observatory.

<p>Axiom Space's Ax-4 mission is being carried out on a SpaceX Dragon capsule. The capsule has a name and NASA astronaut Peggy Whitson revealed it before the Dragon spacecraft separated from Falcon 9's second stage. Here is why it has been named Grace.</p>

Why is Shubhanshu Shukla's Ax-4 Dragon capsule named Grace? NASA astronaut reveals two reasons

<p>Axiom Mission 4 is targeting to dock at 4:30 pm IST on Thursday (June 26), on the space-facing port International Space Station's (ISS) Harmony Module. The mission was launched at 12:01 IST from the Kennedy Space Centre in Florida. It is expected to reach ISS within 28-29 hours.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Here is a detail of all the information you need to know</strong></p><h2>Landing date and time</h2><p>Date- 26.06.2025</p><p>Time- 4:30 PM IST</p><p>Landing location: Node 2 International Space Station&nbsp;</p><h2>Where to watch</h2><p>Official live stream&nbsp;</p><ol><li>Axiom Space YouTube Channel</li></ol><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/@AxiomSpace/streams">https://www.youtube.com/@AxiomSpace/streams</a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>2. NASA TV&nbsp;</p><p>Available via NASA.gov/live&nbsp;</p><p>Also available on the NASA app (iOS/Android)</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>3. Live blog at&nbsp;</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/">https://www.wionews.com/</a></p><p><a href="https://www.nasa.gov/blogs/spacestation/">https://www.nasa.gov/blogs/spacestation/</a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>4. Replays/Highlights:</p><p>Axiom’s official Twitter/X handle @Axiom_Space</p><p>SpaceX’s YouTube channel and @SpaceX</p><h2>Crew member&nbsp;</h2><p>The Dragon is carrying Axiom-4 Commander Peggy Whitson, Pilot Shubhanshu Shukla, and Mission Specialists Sławosz Uznański-Wiśniewski and Tibor Kapu&nbsp;</p><p>Peggy Whitson- Former NASA astronaut and director of human spaceflight at Axiom Space</p><p>Shubhanshu Shukla- ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) astronaut&nbsp;</p><p>Sławosz Uznański-Wiśniewski- ESA (European Space Agency) astronaut</p><p>Tibor Kapu- Hungarian mechanical engineer and astronaut</p><h2>Experiments</h2><p>The scientific investigations planned by the ISRO and NASA include Regenerating muscle tissue, Sprouting seeds, survival of tiny aquatic organisms and human interaction with electronic displays in microgravity.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2>Social Media Handles to Follow</h2><p>@Axiom_Space</p><p>@NASA</p><p>@SpaceX</p><p>#Ax4, #AxiomMission4<br>&nbsp;</p><p><br>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2>&nbsp;</h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

Axiom Mission 4 to make a landing at the Harmony Module of the International Space Station (ISS)  at 4.30. Find out where to watch Axiom 4 landing live, and all the other information

Axiom Mission 4 is targeting to dock at 4:30 pm IST on Thursday (June 26), on the space-facing port International Space Station's (ISS) Harmony Module. The mission was launched at 12:01 IST from the Kennedy Space Centre in Florida. It is expected to reach ISS within 28-29 hours. Here is a detail of all the information you need to know Landing date and time Date- 26.06.2025 Time- 4:30 PM IST Landing location: Node 2 International Space Station Where to watch Official live stream Axiom Space YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/@AxiomSpace/streams 2. NASA TV Available via NASA.gov/live Also available on the NASA app (iOS/Android) 3. Live blog at https://www.wionews.com/ https://www.nasa.gov/blogs/spacestation/ 4. Replays/Highlights: Axiom’s official Twitter/X handle @Axiom_Space SpaceX’s YouTube channel and @SpaceX Crew member The Dragon is carrying Axiom-4 Commander Peggy Whitson, Pilot Shubhanshu Shukla, and Mission Specialists Sławosz Uznański-Wiśniewski and Tibor Kapu Peggy Whitson- Former NASA astronaut and director of human spaceflight at Axiom Space Shubhanshu Shukla- ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) astronaut Sławosz Uznański-Wiśniewski- ESA (European Space Agency) astronaut Tibor Kapu- Hungarian mechanical engineer and astronaut Experiments The scientific investigations planned by the ISRO and NASA include Regenerating muscle tissue, Sprouting seeds, survival of tiny aquatic organisms and human interaction with electronic displays in microgravity. Social Media Handles to Follow @Axiom_Space @NASA @SpaceX #Ax4, #AxiomMission4

<p>Axiom Mission 4 to dock at the International Space Station's (ISS) Harmony Module at 4.30. Find out where to watch Axiom 4 landing live, and all the other information</p>

Axiom Mission 4 to dock: When and where to watch? All you need to know

<p>Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla is in space, above Earth, and will soon dock with the International Space Station. He has become the second Indian to go to space as part of the Axiom-4 mission. Sitting in the SpaceX Dragon capsule along with three other fellow astronauts, Shukla spoke about his experience so far in a live stream. He thanked everyone who helped him reach this far in his journey to space, acknowledging that it is not "a personal accomplishment, but an achievement for everyone." He also spoke about how he is doing, sharing that he has been sleeping a lot on the capsule.</p><p>Shubhanshu talked about the long wait they had to endure to take the trip to space, and that he was tired of waiting. “Hello everyone, namaskar from space. I am thrilled to be here with my fellow astronauts - one veteran and three rookies. Wow, what a ride it was. Frankly, when I was sitting in the capsule, in Grace on the launchpad, my only thought was, let's just go. After 30 days of quarantine, I just wanted to go." Grace is the name of the SpaceX Crew Dragon spacecraft that carried the Axiom-4 astronauts.</p><p>Shubhanshu revealed that once the ride started, he was thrown into a whole new world. "When the ride started, you are getting pushed back into the sea, it was an amazing ride. Then suddenly nothing, everything is silenced, you are just floating in the silence of a vacuum. Amazing feeling," Shukla said from the capsule.</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Ax-4 Mission | In-Flight Update <a href="https://t.co/Lqu0QiGGrA">https://t.co/Lqu0QiGGrA</a></p>&mdash; Axiom Space (@Axiom_Space) <a href="https://twitter.com/Axiom_Space/status/1938111215265591442?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 26, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/indian-astronaut-shubhanshu-shukla-axiom-4-mission-space-station-1750832655595"><strong>From IAF pilot to astronaut: Axiom-4 pilot Shubhanshu Shukla's journey to space</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Shubhanshu admitted that he wasn't thrilled at first, but it all quickly changed. "Honestly, I was not feeling great when we were shot into the vacuum. But I have been told that I am sleeping a lot, which is a great sign. I am enjoying it, the views, learning how to walk, how to control yourself, how to eat, new challenges, new experiences."</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/shubhanshu-shuklas-touching-farewell-to-wife-before-axiom-4-mission-to-international-space-station-1750835614335"><strong>Shubhanshu Shukla’s touching farewell to wife before Axiom-4 mission to International Space Station</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"I am enjoying with my fellow astronauts. It is good to make mistakes, but it is better to see somebody else do that too. It has been fun, Shukla said, laughing. He then thanked everyone who helped accomplish the mission. "I want to thank everyone. It was not a personal accomplishment, but an achievement of everyone. I want to thank my family and friends; you supported me so much." Shubhanshu is only the second Indian to take a trip to space. Rakesh Sharma was the first one who flew to space aboard a Soyuz T-11 on 3 April 1984 as part of the Soviet Interkosmos programme.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/axiom-4-mission-with-india-s-shubhanshu-shukla-lifts-off-from-nasa-s-kennedy-space-center-1750860488619/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/axiom-4-mission-with-india-s-shubhanshu-shukla-lifts-off-from-nasa-s-kennedy-space-center-1750860488619/embed</a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Shubhanshu is carrying a stuffed toy of a small swan with him to space. He shared the symbolism behind it, saying how it is not just an Indian thing. "Swan symbolises wisdom. It also has the ability to discern what should be focused on and what should not. We all have symbolism in Poland, Hungary, and India. It has more meaning than one would think," the 39-year-old said.</p>

Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla has shared an update from space before the Dragon capsule docks with the ISS. Shukla revealed in a livestream that he did not enjoy being thrown into the vacuum of silence at launch, but is thrilled by the experience as part of the Axiom-4 mission.

Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla is in space, above Earth, and will soon dock with the International Space Station. He has become the second Indian to go to space as part of the Axiom-4 mission. Sitting in the SpaceX Dragon capsule along with three other fellow astronauts, Shukla spoke about his experience so far in a live stream. He thanked everyone who helped him reach this far in his journey to space, acknowledging that it is not "a personal accomplishment, but an achievement for everyone." He also spoke about how he is doing, sharing that he has been sleeping a lot on the capsule. Shubhanshu talked about the long wait they had to endure to take the trip to space, and that he was tired of waiting. “Hello everyone, namaskar from space. I am thrilled to be here with my fellow astronauts - one veteran and three rookies. Wow, what a ride it was. Frankly, when I was sitting in the capsule, in Grace on the launchpad, my only thought was, let's just go. After 30 days of quarantine, I just wanted to go." Grace is the name of the SpaceX Crew Dragon spacecraft that carried the Axiom-4 astronauts. Shubhanshu revealed that once the ride started, he was thrown into a whole new world. "When the ride started, you are getting pushed back into the sea, it was an amazing ride. Then suddenly nothing, everything is silenced, you are just floating in the silence of a vacuum. Amazing feeling," Shukla said from the capsule.

<p>Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla has shared an update from space before the Dragon capsule docks with the ISS. Shukla revealed in a livestream that he did not enjoy being thrown into the silence of vacuum at launch, but is thrilled by the experience as part of the Axiom-4 mission.</p>

'I am sleeping a lot': Shubhanshu Shukla says he did not enjoy being shot into 'silence of vacuum'

<p>Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla has shared another message for the people of the country, alongside his Axiom-4 crew. In a video shared on X by <a href="https://x.com/Axiom_Space">Axiom Space</a>, the crew that includes Peggy Whitson, Sławosz Uznański-Wiśniewski and Tibor Kapu, informed that they were flying over Europe and gave a glimpse of Earth from space. "<i>Namaskar from Space</i>," Shukla greeted in Hindi from the Dragon spacecraft. He also added, "I am thrilled to be here with my fellow astronauts. What a ride it was! When I was sitting in the capsule, the only thought was 'let's just go.' It was an amazing ride, and then suddenly, nothing. You were floating in the silence of vacuum," he said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Earlier on Thursday, after the historic takeoff of the Axiom-4 mission, Shukla in a special message from Dragon spacecraft, said in Hindi, "<i>Namaskar mere deshwasiyon</i>. After 41 years, we are back in space. And what a magnificent journey it was. Right now, we are orbiting the Earth at a speed of 7.5 kilometres per second. The tricolour is on my shoulder, showing that I am with all of you." He ended his special message with “<i>Jai Hind! Jai Bharat</i>!”</p>

<h2>Axiom Mission 4</h2><p>Axiom Mission 4 is a private spaceflight to the International Space Station (ISS) operated by Axiom Space in partnership with SpaceX and NASA.[1] It used SpaceX Falcon 9 Block 5 rocket to place Crew Dragon Grace into low Earth orbit. The flight was scheduled to lift off from the Kennedy Space Center on May 29, but it was scrubbed due to a liquid oxygen leak. Due to multiple other technical faults, the launch was further delayed, and it became a reality only on June 25 at 12:01 pm IST.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Shukla earlier said that he will be carrying his favourite food to the space. "There will be plenty of food to eat in space, but I will be carrying mango nectar, carrot halwa (gajar ka halwa), and moong dal halwa with me," he said. Shukla added that he hopes to share them with his international crewmates aboard the ISS. Shukla also revealed that he is carrying a souvenir for Rakesh Sharma, the man who ignited his childhood dream of flying to space. "He has been advising me on many things, including how to prepare for this mission," Shukla shared, though he kept the details of the memento under wraps. "It will be a surprise when I return." Furthermore, he is also taking a small white toy swan named Joy, which will serve as the zero-gravity indicator on board. The moment the capsule enters orbit, Joy will float freely inside the cabin, signalling to the astronauts that they've officially left Earth behind.</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">The crew of Axiom-4 have chosen a white baby swan plush toy named &quot;Joy&quot; as the Zero-G indicator for this mission! 🦢<br><br>Swan is the vehicle of the Hindu goddess Saraswati and represents wisdom &amp; purity. 🕉<br><br>Mission Pilot Shubhanshu Shukla&#39;s 6 y/o son Kiash (aka Sid) also played a… <a href="https://t.co/5WFlQQBVoP">pic.twitter.com/5WFlQQBVoP</a></p>&mdash; ISRO Spaceflight (@ISROSpaceflight) <a href="https://twitter.com/ISROSpaceflight/status/1931731934910255443?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 8, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla expressed his thrill in a video message from the Dragon spacecraft, alongside Axiom-4 crew. Here's his special message for Indians. Don't miss his toy swan named Joy

Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla has shared another message for the people of the country, alongside his Axiom-4 crew. In a video shared on X by Axiom Space, the crew that includes Peggy Whitson, Sławosz Uznański-Wiśniewski and Tibor Kapu, informed that they were flying over Europe and gave a glimpse of Earth from space. "Namaskar from Space," Shukla greeted in Hindi from the Dragon spacecraft. He also added, "I am thrilled to be here with my fellow astronauts. What a ride it was! When I was sitting in the capsule, the only thought was 'let's just go.' It was an amazing ride, and then suddenly, nothing. You were floating in the silence of vacuum," he said. Earlier on Thursday, after the historic takeoff of the Axiom-4 mission, Shukla in a special message from Dragon spacecraft, said in Hindi, "Namaskar mere deshwasiyon. After 41 years, we are back in space. And what a magnificent journey it was. Right now, we are orbiting the Earth at a speed of 7.5 kilometres per second. The tricolour is on my shoulder, showing that I am with all of you." He ended his special message with “Jai Hind! Jai Bharat!”

<p>Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla expressed his thrill in a video message from the Dragon spacecraft, alongside Axiom-4 crew. Here's his special message for Indians. Don't miss his toy swan named ‘Joy’</p>

'Namaskar...': India's Shubhanshu Shukla sends new message for Indians from Axiom-4 ahead of docking - Watch

<p>Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum on Wednesday (Jun 25) threatened to take legal action against Elon Musk’s SpaceX over falling debris and contamination from rocket launches across the border in the United States. During a press conference, Sheinbaum told reporters that the Mexican government was studying which international laws were being violated by the space company to file “the necessary lawsuits” as “there is indeed contamination”.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>On several occasions, SpaceX rocket explosions have resulted in debris washing up on Mexican beaches. Last week, a SpaceX Starship rocket exploded during a routine ground test at the Starbase headquarters in southern Texas, close to the Mexican border. &nbsp;Following the blast, a large fireball was seen erupting into the air, suggesting a setback to Musk’s dream of sending humans to Mars.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Weeks before, debris from SpaceX’s Starship test flight reportedly washed up along the beaches in northern Mexico and parts of southern Texas, sparking concern among environmental groups. The debris included fragments of aluminium, plastic shards and several large tanks, said Conibio Global AC, a nonprofit environmental organisation.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Sheinbaum added that Mexican officials are carrying out a “comprehensive review” of the environmental impacts of rocket launches in the bordering state of Tamaulipas.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>In early May, the US Federal Aviation Administration approved an increase in the annual for rocket launches for Musk’s space company from five to 25. It said that the increased frequency would not impact the environment adversely. The decision came despite conservative groups warning that the expansion could endanger sea turtles and shorebirds.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The lawsuit would be the latest legal battle between Mexico and a US corporate giant. In May, Sheinbaum’s administration sued Google for renaming the Gulf of Mexico to the ‘Gulf of America’ in their Google Maps application. The tech giant made the changes for US users after US President Donald Trump signed an executive order to change its name.</p>

Last week, a SpaceX Starship rocket exploded during a routine ground test at the Starbase headquarters in southern Texas, close to the Mexican border.

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum on Wednesday (Jun 25) threatened to take legal action against Elon Musk’s SpaceX over falling debris and contamination from rocket launches across the border in the United States. During a press conference, Sheinbaum told reporters that the Mexican government was studying which international laws were being violated by the space company to file “the necessary lawsuits” as “there is indeed contamination”. On several occasions, SpaceX rocket explosions have resulted in debris washing up on Mexican beaches. Last week, a SpaceX Starship rocket exploded during a routine ground test at the Starbase headquarters in southern Texas, close to the Mexican border. Following the blast, a large fireball was seen erupting into the air, suggesting a setback to Musk’s dream of sending humans to Mars. Weeks before, debris from SpaceX’s Starship test flight reportedly washed up along the beaches in northern Mexico and parts of southern Texas, sparking concern among environmental groups. The debris included fragments of aluminium, plastic shards and several large tanks, said Conibio Global AC, a nonprofit environmental organisation. Sheinbaum added that Mexican officials are carrying out a “comprehensive review” of the environmental impacts of rocket launches in the bordering state of Tamaulipas. In early May, the US Federal Aviation Administration approved an increase in the annual for rocket launches for Musk’s space company from five to 25. It said that the increased frequency would not impact the environment adversely. The decision came despite conservative groups warning that the expansion could endanger sea turtles and shorebirds. The lawsuit would be the latest legal battle between Mexico and a US corporate giant. In May, Sheinbaum’s administration sued Google for renaming the Gulf of Mexico to the ‘Gulf of America’ in their Google Maps application. The tech giant made the changes for US users after US President Donald Trump signed an executive order to change its name.

<p>Last week, a SpaceX Starship rocket exploded during a routine ground test at the Starbase headquarters in southern Texas, close to the Mexican border.&nbsp;</p>

Elon Musk’s SpaceX to face legal troubles? Mexican president threatens to sue US company over rocket debris

<p>Axiom-4 astronauts aboard the Crew Dragon capsule, nestled atop the SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket, blasted off at 12:01 pm Indian time, 25th June, Wednesday. Barely 13 minutes after liftoff, the SpaceX rocket placed them in orbit around the Earth, and the crew began feeling microgravity-induced weightlessness. However, their journey to the International Space Station would take as much as 28 hours. Here are the technical and scientific reasons behind why the four astronauts would reach the International Space Station only by 4:30 pm Indian time, 26th June, Thursday.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2><strong>Energy and fuel-efficient spaceflight</strong></h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>There are space missions where the crew reach the space station within seven hours of launch, this is known as "fast rendezvous". However, that requires highly precise planning, perfect alignment between the launching spaceport and the space station. Approaching the space station in such a short duration also requires a higher number of manoeuvres and engine firings. This would mean that more fuel is consumed in the process. To cater for this, the spacecraft must carry adequate fuel, and the rocket must be capable of lifting the heavier craft.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Instead, the Crew Dragon capsule is taking the 28-hour option. This allows adequate time to perform various system checks before gradually pushing the craft into orbit where the Space Station is. During this 28-hour journey, the Crew Dragon craft works fully autonomously, with the four astronauts only monitoring all the crucial parameters. In extremely rare cases, the Mission Commander(leader) would have to use the touch screen controls and take control of the touchscreen interfaces to manually manoeuvre the craft. However, such occasions are very rare with the Crew Dragon.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2><strong>Crew Dragon and Space Station - Both orbits need to intersect</strong></h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Initially, the Crew Dragon Spacecraft is launched into an orbit (circular path) that is 200 km above the Earth. The Space Station is about 400 km above the Earth. The way space works, it is not possible for Crew Dragon to travel 200 km straight upwards and meet up with the space station immediately. Therefore, the Crew Dragon gradually adjusts its orbits via a series of engine burns. Each of these engines burns pushes the craft into a higher circular path (orbit), and eventually brings it into a path that matches that of the International Space Station. It must be remembered that objects in low Earth orbit travel at 28,000kmph, and extreme care must be taken during manoeuvres.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2><strong>The final runup to Docking</strong></h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The final approach is done in stages, once the Crew Dragon spacecraft gets barely 400 meters from the Space Station. Then, the Crew Dragon gradually moves itself towards the Space Station, while maintaining constant communication. The 400 metres is brought down to 200 meters, and eventually 30 meters and then the docking takes place. At each of these distances, the spacecraft may hold to carry out system checks, communicate with the space station and ground controllers, and monitor other technical parameters. When within 30meters of the space station, the Crew Dragon uses its cameras, Light Detection and Ranging(LIDAR) sensors.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2><strong>Docking</strong></h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>While a few centimetres away from the Space station, the docking ring of the spacecraft makes contact with the space station's docking port. Then, once aligned, the latching mechanisms align and create a pressure-tight seal. The electrical and data connections are made, and the Crew Dragon becomes a part of the ISS. After various checks are carried out, the hatches on both sides are opened, and the Crew Dragon astronauts enter the space station.<br>&nbsp;</p>

Barely 13 minutes after liftoff, SpaceX rocket placed them in orbit around the Earth, but their journey to the ISS would take as much as 28 hours.

Axiom-4 astronauts aboard the Crew Dragon capsule, nestled atop the SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket, blasted off at 12:01 pm Indian time, 25th June, Wednesday. Barely 13 minutes after liftoff, the SpaceX rocket placed them in orbit around the Earth, and the crew began feeling microgravity-induced weightlessness. However, their journey to the International Space Station would take as much as 28 hours. Here are the technical and scientific reasons behind why the four astronauts would reach the International Space Station only by 4:30 pm Indian time, 26th June, Thursday. Energy and fuel-efficient spaceflight There are space missions where the crew reach the space station within seven hours of launch, this is known as "fast rendezvous". However, that requires highly precise planning, perfect alignment between the launching spaceport and the space station. Approaching the space station in such a short duration also requires a higher number of manoeuvres and engine firings. This would mean that more fuel is consumed in the process. To cater for this, the spacecraft must carry adequate fuel, and the rocket must be capable of lifting the heavier craft. Instead, the Crew Dragon capsule is taking the 28-hour option. This allows adequate time to perform various system checks before gradually pushing the craft into orbit where the Space Station is. During this 28-hour journey, the Crew Dragon craft works fully autonomously, with the four astronauts only monitoring all the crucial parameters. In extremely rare cases, the Mission Commander(leader) would have to use the touch screen controls and take control of the touchscreen interfaces to manually manoeuvre the craft. However, such occasions are very rare with the Crew Dragon. Crew Dragon and Space Station - Both orbits need to intersect Initially, the Crew Dragon Spacecraft is launched into an orbit (circular path) that is 200 km above the Earth. The Space Station is about 400 km above the Earth. The way space works, it is not possible for Crew Dragon to travel 200 km straight upwards and meet up with the space station immediately. Therefore, the Crew Dragon gradually adjusts its orbits via a series of engine burns. Each of these engines burns pushes the craft into a higher circular path (orbit), and eventually brings it into a path that matches that of the International Space Station. It must be remembered that objects in low Earth orbit travel at 28,000kmph, and extreme care must be taken during manoeuvres. The final runup to Docking The final approach is done in stages, once the Crew Dragon spacecraft gets barely 400 meters from the Space Station. Then, the Crew Dragon gradually moves itself towards the Space Station, while maintaining constant communication. The 400 metres is brought down to 200 meters, and eventually 30 meters and then the docking takes place. At each of these distances, the spacecraft may hold to carry out system checks, communicate with the space station and ground controllers, and monitor other technical parameters. When within 30meters of the space station, the Crew Dragon uses its cameras, Light Detection and Ranging(LIDAR) sensors. Docking While a few centimetres away from the Space station, the docking ring of the spacecraft makes contact with the space station's docking port. Then, once aligned, the latching mechanisms align and create a pressure-tight seal. The electrical and data connections are made, and the Crew Dragon becomes a part of the ISS. After various checks are carried out, the hatches on both sides are opened, and the Crew Dragon astronauts enter the space station.

<p>Barely 13 minutes after liftoff, the SpaceX rocket placed them in orbit around the Earth, but their journey to the International Space Station would take as much as 28 hours.</p>

EXPLAINED | Why does it take 28 hours for Axiom-4 astronauts to reach space station?

<p>As Astronaut Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla made his journey into space on Wednesday, he had Bollywood for company. Shukla launched aboard the SpaceX Falcon 9 spacecraft with the Crew Dragon capsule as part of the Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4), lifting off from NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>While the whole world watched Axiom Mission 4 launch successfully into space, Shukla had a bit of home to keep him company in his historic flight.&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;</p><p>The Indian Air Force test pilot’s playlist during lift-off featured the beloved film song <i>Yun Hi Chala Chal Rahi </i>from the Shah Rukh Khan-starrer movie <i>Swades</i> (2003). The song has been sung by Udit Narayan, Hariharan, and Kailash Kher, with lyrics by Javed Akhtar and music by AR Rahman.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>SpaceX shared this unique detail on X, alongside the playlists of other crew members: Mission Commander Peggy Whitson's Thunder by Imagine Dragons, Sławosz Uznański's Supermoce, and Tibor Kapu's Búvóhely.</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Pass the Aux! The <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ax4?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ax4</a> crew share their launch-day playlist. <a href="https://t.co/YwCp0Is6cF">pic.twitter.com/YwCp0Is6cF</a></p>&mdash; Axiom Space (@Axiom_Space) <a href="https://twitter.com/Axiom_Space/status/1937759028991475785?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 25, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p><br>&nbsp;The song <i>Yun Hi Chala Chal Rahi</i> is a journey song, which tells that life is a journey and one must keep marching on. The song features SRK and Makrand Deshpande.&nbsp;</p><h2>Watch the song here:&nbsp;</h2>

<h2><strong>What is the Axiom-4 mission?</strong></h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Shukla has made history by becoming only the second Indian to go to space. The trip is happening aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 Dragon capsule. India has paid space company Axiom a whopping $70 million for a seat to the International Space Station. That is nearly Rs 599 crore. Axiom-4 is carrying around 60 scientific studies from 31 countries to the ISS. Rakesh Sharma was the last Indian to fly to space aboard a Soyuz T-11 on 3 April 1984 as part of the Soviet Interkosmos programme.</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

As Astronaut Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla made his journey into space on Wednesday, he had Bollywood for company. 

As Astronaut Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla made his journey into space on Wednesday, he had Bollywood for company. Shukla launched aboard the SpaceX Falcon 9 spacecraft with the Crew Dragon capsule as part of the Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4), lifting off from NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. While the whole world watched Axiom Mission 4 launch successfully into space, Shukla had a bit of home to keep him company in his historic flight. The Indian Air Force test pilot’s playlist during lift-off featured the beloved film song Yun Hi Chala Chal Rahi from the Shah Rukh Khan-starrer movie Swades (2003). The song has been sung by Udit Narayan, Hariharan, and Kailash Kher, with lyrics by Javed Akhtar and music by AR Rahman. SpaceX shared this unique detail on X, alongside the playlists of other crew members: Mission Commander Peggy Whitson's Thunder by Imagine Dragons, Sławosz Uznański's Supermoce, and Tibor Kapu's Búvóhely.

<p>As Astronaut Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla made his journey into space on Wednesday, he had Bollywood for company.&nbsp;</p>

Axiom Mission 4: Shubhanshu Shukla takes a bit of Bollywood along as he makes his journey into space

<p>Axiom Space signs MOU with Skyroot Aerospace to boost India–US space links</p><p>The partnership will aim to open low-earth orbit to more customers</p><p>Axiom Space has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Hyderabad-based Skyroot Aerospace to look at joint projects that can widen access to low-Earth orbit (LEO).</p><p>The agreement, announced on X by Axiom Space, will let the two companies study ways to combine Skyroot’s launch services with Axiom’s planned commercial space station.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>As per the Axiom Space website, the deal “reinforces growing cooperation with the Indian space sector”. The firm’s recent Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4), launched on 25 June, carried India’s Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla to the International Space Station (ISS) the country’s first human spaceflight in more than 41 years.</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">“Since the day I visited Skyroot’s facility two years ago, I knew our companies had to work together to define humanity’s future in space. With our shared vision to transform access to space, we look forward to collaborating with <a href="https://twitter.com/SkyrootA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SkyrootA</a> to serve the growing space ecosystem in… <a href="https://t.co/tAev3VLDlg">pic.twitter.com/tAev3VLDlg</a></p>&mdash; Axiom Space (@Axiom_Space) <a href="https://twitter.com/Axiom_Space/status/1937828571860419032?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 25, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2><strong>What each company brings to the table</strong></h2><p>Skyroot Aerospace is India’s leading private launch provider and the first in South Asia to send a privately built rocket past the Kármán line. After its 2022 Vikram-S sub-orbital flight, the company is preparing the Vikram-1 orbital launcher, aimed at affordable, on-demand missions.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Axiom Space is building Axiom Station, a commercial successor to the ISS. The US firm plans to add its first habitation module to the ISS in 2026 before operating the station independently later in the decade.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“Our vision is greater and fairer access to space,” said Pawan Kumar Chandana, Skyroot co-founder and CEO.</p><p>Tejpaul Bhatia, Axiom CEO, added: “With our shared ambition, we can serve India’s fast-growing space ecosystem and global customers.”</p><h2><strong>Possible joint projects</strong></h2><p><strong>Under the MoU:</strong></p><p>Integrated launch packages for research payloads headed to Axiom Station.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Deploying orbital data-centre nodes using Skyroot rockets.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Dedicated missions for Indian and international clients who need microgravity research time in LEO.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Both firms say the collaboration could cut costs and speed up timelines for universities, start-ups, and national agencies that lack their own launch or lab facilities.</p><h2><strong>Why this matters for India</strong></h2><p>The deal aligns with New Delhi’s push to expand private activity in space after its 2023 policy reforms. It also gives Indian researchers a future path to Axiom’s station once the ISS retires.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>For Axiom, partnering with an agile launch provider in Asia supports a diverse global supply chain and helps fill its planned orbital laboratory with steady traffic, experts predict.</p>

Axiom Space has signed an MOU with India’s Skyroot Aerospace to explore joint projects for low-earth orbit access. The deal could support launches to Axiom’s future space station, boost India–US space ties, and expand opportunities for research and commercial missions.


Axiom Space signs MOU with Skyroot Aerospace to boost India–US space links The partnership will aim to open low-earth orbit to more customers Axiom Space has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Hyderabad-based Skyroot Aerospace to look at joint projects that can widen access to low-Earth orbit (LEO). The agreement, announced on X by Axiom Space, will let the two companies study ways to combine Skyroot’s launch services with Axiom’s planned commercial space station. As per the Axiom Space website, the deal “reinforces growing cooperation with the Indian space sector”. The firm’s recent Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4), launched on 25 June, carried India’s Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla to the International Space Station (ISS) the country’s first human spaceflight in more than 41 years.

<p>Axiom Space has signed an MOU with India’s Skyroot Aerospace to explore joint projects for low-earth orbit access. The deal could support launches to Axiom’s future space station, boost India–US space ties, and expand opportunities for research and commercial missions.</p>

After Axiom mission 4 success, Axiom Space announced partnership with Skyroot Aerospace to power future missions.

<p>The world’s first jet-powered flying humanoid robot has successfully taken its first flight. This was made possible by researchers in Italy who published their observations and achievements in Nature Communications Engineering. The robot, iRonCub3, lifted off the ground by about 50 cm and remained stable for the entire duration. The Italian Institute of Technology (IIT) achieved a major breakthrough in humanoid robotics. iRonCub3 has been built for real-world environments. The entire project took the scientists two years, including the latest testing.</p><p>The Italian scientists noted that in the latest experiments, the robot lifted approximately 50 cm off the ground while maintaining stability. This paves the way for the future development of flying robots that can work like humans but take flight for various tasks. The team analysed the robot’s complex aerodynamics and created an advanced control system for managing its interconnected parts.</p><p>To create the flying humanoid robots, IIT roboticists in Genoa, Italy, collaborated with Alex Zanotti’s team at the DAER Aerodynamics Laboratory at the Polytechnic of Milan, where they carried out extensive wind tunnel tests. They also got together with Gianluca Iaccarino’s group at Stanford University, where "deep learning algorithms were developed to model aerodynamics," SciTech Daily reported.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/giant-comet-from-oort-cloud-spotted-moving-at-insane-speed-inside-solar-system-will-it-reach-earth-1750829164659"><strong>Giant comet from Oort cloud spotted moving at insane speed inside solar system. Will it reach Earth?</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>The goal of the project, led by the Artificial and Mechanical Intelligence (AMI) Lab at IIT under Daniele Pucci, is to integrate walking and flying functions into humanoid robots to enable them to navigate unstructured and extreme environments. iRonCub3 was built on the latest version of the iCub humanoid robot, known as iCub3.</p><p>“This research is radically different from traditional humanoid robotics and forced us to make a substantial leap forward with respect to the state of the art,” Daniele Pucci said. "Here, thermodynamics plays a pivotal role — the emission gases from the turbines reach 700°C and flow at nearly the speed of sound. Aerodynamics must be evaluated in real-time, while control systems must handle both slow joint actuators and fast jet turbines. Testing these robots is as fascinating as it is dangerous, and there is no room for improvisation."</p><p>The humanoid robot uses four jet engines to fly. Two of them are mounted on its arms, and two on a jetpack attached to its back. In the earlier version, the iCub robot's hardware was modified with a new titanium spine and protective heat-resistant covers to make this possible. The entire robot weighs around 70 kilograms, and it can hover and carry out controlled flight manoeuvres even in unsuitable conditions, such as during wind disturbances.</p>

The World's first flying humanoid robot lifted off the ground in Italy. It took off approximately 50 cm off the ground while maintaining stability. 

The world’s first jet-powered flying humanoid robot has successfully taken its first flight. This was made possible by researchers in Italy who published their observations and achievements in Nature Communications Engineering. The robot, iRonCub3, lifted off the ground by about 50 cm and remained stable for the entire duration. The Italian Institute of Technology (IIT) achieved a major breakthrough in humanoid robotics. iRonCub3 has been built for real-world environments. The entire project took the scientists two years, including the latest testing. The Italian scientists noted that in the latest experiments, the robot lifted approximately 50 cm off the ground while maintaining stability. This paves the way for the future development of flying robots that can work like humans but take flight for various tasks. The team analysed the robot’s complex aerodynamics and created an advanced control system for managing its interconnected parts. To create the flying humanoid robots, IIT roboticists in Genoa, Italy, collaborated with Alex Zanotti’s team at the DAER Aerodynamics Laboratory at the Polytechnic of Milan, where they carried out extensive wind tunnel tests. They also got together with Gianluca Iaccarino’s group at Stanford University, where "deep learning algorithms were developed to model aerodynamics," SciTech Daily reported. Also Read: Giant comet from Oort cloud spotted moving at insane speed inside solar system. Will it reach Earth?

<p>The world's first flying humanoid robot lifted off the ground in Italy. It took off approximately 50 cm off the ground while maintaining stability.&nbsp;</p>

Flying robot becomes a reality as first humanoid lifts off in Italy. Watch

<p>A prehistoric horror story has been frozen in time — complete with mind control, body hijacking, and a fungus erupting from a fly's skull has been discovered. Scientists have discovered a million-year-old glob that proves that the "strangeness of the natural world that we see today was also present at the height of the age of the dinosaurs." Preserved inside a 99 million-year-old amber, scientists found an ancient fly stuck in a horror show—a zombie fungus bursting forth from its head. The fly, along with the specimen of a young ant stricken by a similar fungus.</p><p>This zombie fungus (and its modern descendants) are parasites that hijack the bodies of their hosts, ultimately killing them. Even after the host's death, these parasites continue to puppeteer their victims' bodies, a bizarre natural phenomenon that inspired the hit TV series 'Last of Us'.</p><h2><strong>An ancient horror</strong></h2><p>Two insects — a fly and a juvenile ant — preserved in 99-million-year-old amber from Myanmar have revealed what scientists are calling some of the oldest examples of parasitic "zombie" fungi ever discovered.</p><p>The fossils, found in Myanmar's amber markets, are a rare opportunity for scientists "to visualise the ancient ecological relationships preserved in fossils," said Yuhui Zhuang, lead author and doctoral researcher at Yunnan University.</p><p>One of the fossils, a grotesquely well-preserved one, shows the fruiting bodies of the ancient fungi bursting through the hosts’ heads, frozen mid-invasion.</p><p>The discovery, detailed in a June 11 study in Proceedings of the Royal Society B, offers a rare and chilling look at how ancient ecosystems operated — and just how long nature has been perfecting the art of parasitism.</p><p>Zhuang and his colleagues identified two new species of parasitic fungus from the Ophiocordyceps genus, infamous today for turning ants into zombified shells. The fossilized fungi were named Paleoophiocordyceps gerontoformicae (on the ant) and Paleoophiocordyceps ironomyiae (on the fly). Researchers used microscopes and 3D micro-CT scans to study the stunning specimens.</p><p>The oldest zombies in the forest</p><p>Today, modern Ophiocordyceps fungi manipulate the behaviour of insects like carpenter ants — controlling their movements, making them climb high before dying, so the fungus can erupt and spread its spores.</p><p>According to the researchers, Paleoophiocordyceps likely functioned in exactly the same way, suggesting that this kind of evolutionary trickery was already in place back in the Cretaceous period — at the height of the dinosaur age.</p><p>Zombie fungi's favourite victim—the ant</p><p>"It appears that ants, for some reason, were targeted early for zombification, and currently are the major recipients of this parasitoid fungus," said Conrad Labandeira, a Smithsonian palaeontologist not involved in the study. Flies are rarely affected today, which makes this fossilized example even more fascinating," he added.</p><p>The infected insects were probably already dead — killed by the fungi — when they were trapped in tree resin, the sticky precursor to amber.</p><p>The takeaway? Haunting and oddly poetic: even tens of millions of years ago, life — and death — was stranger than fiction.</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

Scientists have made a haunting and oddly poetic discovery that shows that even tens of millions of years ago, life — and death — was stranger than fiction. Here's all we know about the ancient zombie fungi discovery.

A prehistoric horror story has been frozen in time — complete with mind control, body hijacking, and a fungus erupting from a fly's skull has been discovered. Scientists have discovered a million-year-old glob that proves that the "strangeness of the natural world that we see today was also present at the height of the age of the dinosaurs." Preserved inside a 99 million-year-old amber, scientists found an ancient fly stuck in a horror show—a zombie fungus bursting forth from its head. The fly, along with the specimen of a young ant stricken by a similar fungus. This zombie fungus (and its modern descendants) are parasites that hijack the bodies of their hosts, ultimately killing them. Even after the host's death, these parasites continue to puppeteer their victims' bodies, a bizarre natural phenomenon that inspired the hit TV series 'Last of Us'. An ancient horror Two insects — a fly and a juvenile ant — preserved in 99-million-year-old amber from Myanmar have revealed what scientists are calling some of the oldest examples of parasitic "zombie" fungi ever discovered. The fossils, found in Myanmar's amber markets, are a rare opportunity for scientists "to visualise the ancient ecological relationships preserved in fossils," said Yuhui Zhuang, lead author and doctoral researcher at Yunnan University. One of the fossils, a grotesquely well-preserved one, shows the fruiting bodies of the ancient fungi bursting through the hosts’ heads, frozen mid-invasion. The discovery, detailed in a June 11 study in Proceedings of the Royal Society B, offers a rare and chilling look at how ancient ecosystems operated — and just how long nature has been perfecting the art of parasitism. Zhuang and his colleagues identified two new species of parasitic fungus from the Ophiocordyceps genus, infamous today for turning ants into zombified shells. The fossilized fungi were named Paleoophiocordyceps gerontoformicae (on the ant) and Paleoophiocordyceps ironomyiae (on the fly). Researchers used microscopes and 3D micro-CT scans to study the stunning specimens. The oldest zombies in the forest Today, modern Ophiocordyceps fungi manipulate the behaviour of insects like carpenter ants — controlling their movements, making them climb high before dying, so the fungus can erupt and spread its spores. According to the researchers, Paleoophiocordyceps likely functioned in exactly the same way, suggesting that this kind of evolutionary trickery was already in place back in the Cretaceous period — at the height of the dinosaur age. Zombie fungi's favourite victim—the ant "It appears that ants, for some reason, were targeted early for zombification, and currently are the major recipients of this parasitoid fungus," said Conrad Labandeira, a Smithsonian palaeontologist not involved in the study. Flies are rarely affected today, which makes this fossilized example even more fascinating," he added. The infected insects were probably already dead — killed by the fungi — when they were trapped in tree resin, the sticky precursor to amber. The takeaway? Haunting and oddly poetic: even tens of millions of years ago, life — and death — was stranger than fiction.

<p>Scientists have made a haunting and oddly poetic discovery that shows that even tens of millions of years ago, life — and death — was stranger than fiction. Here's all we know about the ancient zombie fungi discovery.</p>

Prehistoric horror: 99-million-year-old ‘zombie’ fungus found bursting from insect heads

<p>Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla of the Indian Air Force has officially entered orbit as part of the Axiom-4 mission to the International Space Station (ISS) &nbsp;on Wednesday. The SpaceX Crew Dragon spacecraft lifted off from NASA’s Kennedy Space Centre, Florida, at 12:00 PM IST (2:30 AM EDT). The launch marks a historic first for India, with Shukla becoming the country’s first astronaut to travel to the ISS. The spacecraft, travelling at over 27,000 kilometres per hour in low Earth orbit, is expected to dock with the ISS around 4:30 PM IST on June 26 after a 28-hour journey. Just before departure, Shukla shared a heartfelt message for his wife, Kamna Shukla, expressing deep gratitude for her constant support.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Shukla is joined by three international crewmates—mission commander Peggy Whitson from the United States, and mission specialists Tibor Kapu (Hungary) and Slawosz Uznanski (Poland), both representing the European Space Agency. This is the first ISS mission for all three participating nations—India, Hungary, and Poland—since their initial crewed spaceflights nearly four decades ago. The Axiom-4 mission, organised by Axiom Space in collaboration with SpaceX, ISRO, and international partners, underscores growing cooperation in commercial space exploration.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2><strong>Farewell message before departure</strong></h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Before departing Earth, Shukla shared a personal message on social media, expressing gratitude to his team, friends, and family. His note included a special mention of his wife, Kamna Shukla. “Special thanks to Kamna for being the wonderful partner that you are. Without you none of this was possible, but more importantly none of this would matter,” he wrote. The post was accompanied by a poignant photograph of the couple bidding farewell through a glass partition, a quiet moment before a momentous journey.</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

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overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DLTF3b2yZA5/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Shubhanshu Shukla (@gagan.shux)</a></p></div></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p><p>Shukla and Kamna’s story traces back to their school days in Lucknow, where they met in primary school. Now parents to a six-year-old, the couple’s long-standing bond has stood alongside the pilot’s rise through the Indian Air Force and into space history.</p><h2><strong>Milestone for Indian spaceflight</strong></h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>In orbit, Shukla addressed the nation with a brief message: “This is the beginning of India’s space programme. Every Indian should feel proud. Jai Hind, Jai Bharat.” The mission serves as a precursor to ISRO’s planned Gaganyaan mission in 2027, and India’s long-term goal of landing an astronaut on the Moon by 2040.&nbsp;</p>

In orbit, Shukla addressed the nation with a brief message: “This is the beginning of India’s space programme. Every Indian should feel proud. Jai Hind, Jai Bharat.”

Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla of the Indian Air Force has officially entered orbit as part of the Axiom-4 mission to the International Space Station (ISS) on Wednesday. The SpaceX Crew Dragon spacecraft lifted off from NASA’s Kennedy Space Centre, Florida, at 12:00 PM IST (2:30 AM EDT). The launch marks a historic first for India, with Shukla becoming the country’s first astronaut to travel to the ISS. The spacecraft, travelling at over 27,000 kilometres per hour in low Earth orbit, is expected to dock with the ISS around 4:30 PM IST on June 26 after a 28-hour journey. Just before departure, Shukla shared a heartfelt message for his wife, Kamna Shukla, expressing deep gratitude for her constant support. Shukla is joined by three international crewmates—mission commander Peggy Whitson from the United States, and mission specialists Tibor Kapu (Hungary) and Slawosz Uznanski (Poland), both representing the European Space Agency. This is the first ISS mission for all three participating nations—India, Hungary, and Poland—since their initial crewed spaceflights nearly four decades ago. The Axiom-4 mission, organised by Axiom Space in collaboration with SpaceX, ISRO, and international partners, underscores growing cooperation in commercial space exploration. Farewell message before departure Before departing Earth, Shukla shared a personal message on social media, expressing gratitude to his team, friends, and family. His note included a special mention of his wife, Kamna Shukla. “Special thanks to Kamna for being the wonderful partner that you are. Without you none of this was possible, but more importantly none of this would matter,” he wrote. The post was accompanied by a poignant photograph of the couple bidding farewell through a glass partition, a quiet moment before a momentous journey.

<p>In orbit, Shukla addressed the nation with a brief message: “This is the beginning of India’s space programme. Every Indian should feel proud. Jai Hind, Jai Bharat.”</p>

Shubhanshu Shukla’s touching farewell to wife before Axiom-4 mission to International Space Station

<p>The Axiom-4 mission carrying Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla and three others lifted off at 12:01 pm on Wednesday (June 25) from Launch Complex 39A at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The historic takeoff after multiple delays is special for India and Shubhanshu Shukla's mother couldn't stop her tears as the mission took off. After the takeoff, in a special message from Dragon spacecraft, Shukla said in Hindi, "Namaskar mere deshwasiyon. After 41 years, we are back in space. And what a magnificent journey it was. Right now, we are orbiting the Earth at a speed of 7.5 kilometres per second. The tricolour is on my shoulder, showing that I am with all of you." He ended his special message with “Jai Hind! Jai Bharat!”</p><h2>Shubhanshu Shukla's full message</h2><p>“Namaskar, my dear countrymen! What a ride! We are back in the space once again after 41 years. It's an amazing ride. We are revolving around the Earth at a speed of 7.5 kilometres per second. The Tiranga embossed on my shoulders tells me that I am with all of you. This journey of mine is not a beginning to the International Space Station (ISS) but to India's Human Space Programme. I want all of you to be part of this journey. Your chest, too, should swell with pride...Together, let's initiate India's Human Space Programme. Jai Hind! Jai Bharat!”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>WATCH HERE&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>As the Dragon capsule successfully reached orbit and separated from the Falcon 9’s second stage, the moment space fans around the world waited for arrived, the appearance of the zero gravity indicator. A small plush toy named ‘Joy’ floated into view inside the cabin, signaling that the crew had officially entered microgravity. For Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla, it marked the first moments of floating freely in space, a milestone in India’s human spaceflight journey. The capsule is now coasting in orbit as it begins its journey to dock with the International Space Station.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The SpaceX Crew Dragon spacecraft lifted off at 12:00 PM IST (2:30 AM EDT) on June 25, 2025, and is now en route to the International Space Station (ISS). Docking is expected at approximately 4:30 PM IST on June 26, after a 28-hour orbital journey.</p><p>This historic flight makes Shukla the first Indian to travel to the ISS, marking a major milestone in India's growing contribution to global space exploration. The mission reflects deepening cooperation between ISRO, NASA, and private partners, reinforcing India's presence in the next era of human spaceflight.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/live-updates/science/shubhanshu-shukla-live-updates-indian-astronaut-set-for-launch-on-nasa-and-spacex-axiom-4-space-mission-shortly-1750825715615"><strong>Follow our LIVE covergae for real time updates</strong></a> - Traveling at a staggering speed of 27,000 kilometers per hour, the Dragon spacecraft has entered a stable low Earth orbit at an altitude of approximately 210 km. This high-velocity orbital path allows the capsule to circle the Earth roughly once every 90 minutes. At this speed and altitude, Shubhanshu Shukla and the Axiom-4 crew are now truly in space, experiencing microgravity as they cruise toward their scheduled docking with the International Space Station.</p>

The historic takeoff of Axiom-4 mission after multiple delays is special for India and Shubhanshu Shukla sent a special message in Hindi for the people of the country as the Dragon spacecraft took off from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida

The Axiom-4 mission carrying Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla and three others lifted off at 12:01 pm on Wednesday (June 25) from Launch Complex 39A at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The historic takeoff after multiple delays is special for India and Shubhanshu Shukla's mother couldn't stop her tears as the mission took off. After the takeoff, in a special message from Dragon spacecraft, Shukla said in Hindi, "Namaskar mere deshwasiyon. After 41 years, we are back in space. And what a magnificent journey it was. Right now, we are orbiting the Earth at a speed of 7.5 kilometres per second. The tricolour is on my shoulder, showing that I am with all of you." He ended his special message with “Jai Hind! Jai Bharat!” Shubhanshu Shukla's full message “Namaskar, my dear countrymen! What a ride! We are back in the space once again after 41 years. It's an amazing ride. We are revolving around the Earth at a speed of 7.5 kilometres per second. The Tiranga embossed on my shoulders tells me that I am with all of you. This journey of mine is not a beginning to the International Space Station (ISS) but to India's Human Space Programme. I want all of you to be part of this journey. Your chest, too, should swell with pride...Together, let's initiate India's Human Space Programme. Jai Hind! Jai Bharat!” WATCH HERE

<p>The historic takeoff of Axiom-4 mission after multiple delays is special for India and Shubhanshu Shukla sent a special message in Hindi for the people of the country as the Dragon spacecraft took off from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida</p>

'Tricolour is on my shoulder': Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla's special message in Hindi after launch of Axiom-4 mission - Watch

<p>Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla has jetted off to the International Space Station as part of the Axiom-4 mission. He will be accompanied by three other astronauts - Peggy Whitson, a former NASA astronaut, mission specialist Sławosz Uznański-Wiśniewski of Poland, and mission specialist Tibor Kapu of Hungary. Shubhanshu's journey towards a space trip started in 2019. The Institute of Aerospace Medicine (IAM), an organisation under the Indian Air Force for the Indian Human Spaceflight Programme, picked Shukla in the astronaut selection process. He was later shortlisted in the final four by IAM and ISRO.</p><p>Nicknamed Shux, Shubhanshu Shukla's friends and colleagues say he is an extremely intelligent person, with exceptional mental capabilities and the way he processes knowledge. Peggy Whitson says his "technical knowledge" is an exceptional asset for the Axiom-4 mission.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2><strong>Shubhanshu Shukla's flying career</strong></h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Shukla completed his military training and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science from the National Defence Academy in 2005. The next year, he started his journey with flying aircraft when he was commissioned into the IAF fighter wing.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/isro-shubhanshu-shukla-axiom-4-space-mission-ticket-price-cost-1749537739392"><strong>India paid millions of dollars to get Shubhanshu Shukla a seat on Axiom-4 space mission. A whopping...</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Shubhanshu has 2,000 hours of flight experience with jets like Su-30 MKI, MiG-21, MiG-29, Jaguar, Hawk and more. He was elevated to group captain in March 2024 for his achievements and brilliant work. After the IAM selection process, he was one of only four astronauts to be finally picked by IAM and ISRO. Shubhanshu received basic astronaut training at the Yuri Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Centre in Russia, which he completed in 2021.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2><strong>Shubhanshu Shukla chosen for Gaganyaan</strong></h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>After returning to India, he received further training at the Astronaut Training Facility in Bengaluru. His years of hard work paid off when he was chosen to be a part of Gaganyaan, India's first human space mission. The first crewed mission is expected to be launched in 2026. The names of the astronauts who would be a part of Gaganyaan were announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 27 February 2024 at ISRO's Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre in Thiruvananthapuram.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/-scheduled-to-lift-off-nasa-shares-status-ahead-of-axiom-4-launch-after-multiple-delays-1750798949785"><strong>'Scheduled to lift off...': NASA shares status ahead of Axiom-4 launch after multiple delays</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2><strong>What is the Axiom-4 mission?</strong></h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>But before Gaganyaan, Shukla has made history by becoming only the second Indian to go to space. The trip is happening aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 Dragon capsule. India has paid space company Axiom a whopping $70 million for a seat to the International Space Station. That is nearly Rs 599 crore. Axiom-4 is carrying around 60 scientific studies from 31 countries to the ISS. Rakesh Sharma was the last Indian to fly to space aboard a Soyuz T-11 on 3 April 1984 as part of the Soviet Interkosmos programme.<br>&nbsp;</p>

Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla has jetted off to the International Space Station as part of the Axiom-4 mission. He is the second Indian to go to space in 41 years.

Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla has jetted off to the International Space Station as part of the Axiom-4 mission. He will be accompanied by three other astronauts - Peggy Whitson, a former NASA astronaut, mission specialist Sławosz Uznański-Wiśniewski of Poland, and mission specialist Tibor Kapu of Hungary. Shubhanshu's journey towards a space trip started in 2019. The Institute of Aerospace Medicine (IAM), an organisation under the Indian Air Force for the Indian Human Spaceflight Programme, picked Shukla in the astronaut selection process. He was later shortlisted in the final four by IAM and ISRO. Nicknamed Shux, Shubhanshu Shukla's friends and colleagues say he is an extremely intelligent person, with exceptional mental capabilities and the way he processes knowledge. Peggy Whitson says his "technical knowledge" is an exceptional asset for the Axiom-4 mission. Shubhanshu Shukla's flying career Shukla completed his military training and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science from the National Defence Academy in 2005. The next year, he started his journey with flying aircraft when he was commissioned into the IAF fighter wing. Also Read: India paid millions of dollars to get Shubhanshu Shukla a seat on Axiom-4 space mission. A whopping... Shubhanshu has 2,000 hours of flight experience with jets like Su-30 MKI, MiG-21, MiG-29, Jaguar, Hawk and more. He was elevated to group captain in March 2024 for his achievements and brilliant work. After the IAM selection process, he was one of only four astronauts to be finally picked by IAM and ISRO. Shubhanshu received basic astronaut training at the Yuri Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Centre in Russia, which he completed in 2021. Shubhanshu Shukla chosen for Gaganyaan After returning to India, he received further training at the Astronaut Training Facility in Bengaluru. His years of hard work paid off when he was chosen to be a part of Gaganyaan, India's first human space mission. The first crewed mission is expected to be launched in 2026. The names of the astronauts who would be a part of Gaganyaan were announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 27 February 2024 at ISRO's Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre in Thiruvananthapuram. Also Read: 'Scheduled to lift off...': NASA shares status ahead of Axiom-4 launch after multiple delays What is the Axiom-4 mission? But before Gaganyaan, Shukla has made history by becoming only the second Indian to go to space. The trip is happening aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 Dragon capsule. India has paid space company Axiom a whopping $70 million for a seat to the International Space Station. That is nearly Rs 599 crore. Axiom-4 is carrying around 60 scientific studies from 31 countries to the ISS. Rakesh Sharma was the last Indian to fly to space aboard a Soyuz T-11 on 3 April 1984 as part of the Soviet Interkosmos programme.

<p>Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla has jetted off to the International Space Station as part of the Axiom-4 mission. Shukla has made history by becoming only the second Indian to go to space.&nbsp;</p>

From IAF pilot to astronaut: Axiom-4 pilot Shubhanshu Shukla's journey to space

<p>Astronomers have observed a giant comet hurtling towards the inner solar system, releasing superfast jets. It is spewing carbon monoxide from its surface at an absolutely insane speed. Comet C/2014 UN271 (Bernardinelli-Bernstein) is the largest comet to originate from the Oort Cloud. The comet is absolutely humongous, measuring a whopping 137 kilometres wide. The comet first seen in March, 2024, is 14 times bigger than the asteroid that killed the dinosaurs 65 million years ago. Its insane activity and size were confirmed by scientists in Chile. Will it close up on Earth any time soon?</p><p>Comet C/2014 was seen having its first outburst on 8 March last year. It was extremely hyperactive and again released a jet on 17 March, which was of a lesser scale than the first one. It is visiting from the Oort Cloud, a region in space far beyond the orbit of Pluto and the Kuiper Belt. Astronomers used the Atacama Large Millimetre/submillimeter Array (ALMA) in Chile to make further observations and confirmed that the comet is a monster size and oozing high-speed jets.</p><p>Astrochemist Nathan Roth of American University and NASA Goddard Space Flight Center said looking at the comet gives them a chance to learn about the enormous, icy world. "We're seeing explosive outgassing patterns that raise new questions about how this comet will evolve as it continues its journey toward the inner Solar System," he said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/someone-just-contacted-earth-and-it-shouldn-t-have-because-it-is-long-dead-1750501103924"><strong>Someone just contacted Earth, and it shouldn't have...because it is long dead</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>After the first observation on 8 March, when scientists saw jets blasting from the comet's nucleus, it seemed to have settled down a bit by the time it released its second jet. Astronomers could only see one jet in the second observation, but they think it could have simply moved out of view. There were hints of the beginning of a coma, the cloud of gas and dust that forms around the comet's nucleus as it approaches the sun. As it gets closer, this coma starts fizzing away and forms the tail of the comet.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2><strong>Comet was spotted near Uranus</strong></h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The most intriguing thing about the observation is that the comet was spotted when it was just inside the orbit of Uranus, some 16 times the distance between Earth and the Sun. Its size makes it even special, since it is twice the estimated size of the comet Hale-Bopp, the previous mammoth from the Oort Cloud. The biggest comet known to man is 95P/Chiron, which is more than 210 kilometres wide. It moves in a fixed orbit around the Sun between Saturn and Uranus.</p><p>Will Comet C/2014 reach Earth?</p><p>The monster comet screeching through the solar system will not come close to Earth. It will make it as far as the orbit of Saturn on 29 January 2031. Scientists are eager to learn more about the comet when it reaches its closest point. They will continue to look at it in the meantime.&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;</p>

Comet C/2014 UN271 (Bernardinelli-Bernstein): The Oort cloud has sent its biggest comet yet towards the inner solar system, and it is travelling at an insane speed, releasing jets of carbon monoxide.

Astronomers have observed a giant comet hurtling towards the inner solar system, releasing superfast jets. It is spewing carbon monoxide from its surface at an absolutely insane speed. Comet C/2014 UN271 (Bernardinelli-Bernstein) is the largest comet to originate from the Oort Cloud. The comet is absolutely humongous, measuring a whopping 137 kilometres wide. The comet first seen in March, 2024, is 14 times bigger than the asteroid that killed the dinosaurs 65 million years ago. Its insane activity and size were confirmed by scientists in Chile. Will it close up on Earth any time soon? Comet C/2014 was seen having its first outburst on 8 March last year. It was extremely hyperactive and again released a jet on 17 March, which was of a lesser scale than the first one. It is visiting from the Oort Cloud, a region in space far beyond the orbit of Pluto and the Kuiper Belt. Astronomers used the Atacama Large Millimetre/submillimeter Array (ALMA) in Chile to make further observations and confirmed that the comet is a monster size and oozing high-speed jets. Astrochemist Nathan Roth of American University and NASA Goddard Space Flight Center said looking at the comet gives them a chance to learn about the enormous, icy world. "We're seeing explosive outgassing patterns that raise new questions about how this comet will evolve as it continues its journey toward the inner Solar System," he said. Also Read: Someone just contacted Earth, and it shouldn't have...because it is long dead After the first observation on 8 March, when scientists saw jets blasting from the comet's nucleus, it seemed to have settled down a bit by the time it released its second jet. Astronomers could only see one jet in the second observation, but they think it could have simply moved out of view. There were hints of the beginning of a coma, the cloud of gas and dust that forms around the comet's nucleus as it approaches the sun. As it gets closer, this coma starts fizzing away and forms the tail of the comet. Comet was spotted near Uranus The most intriguing thing about the observation is that the comet was spotted when it was just inside the orbit of Uranus, some 16 times the distance between Earth and the Sun. Its size makes it even special, since it is twice the estimated size of the comet Hale-Bopp, the previous mammoth from the Oort Cloud. The biggest comet known to man is 95P/Chiron, which is more than 210 kilometres wide. It moves in a fixed orbit around the Sun between Saturn and Uranus. Will Comet C/2014 reach Earth? The monster comet screeching through the solar system will not come close to Earth. It will make it as far as the orbit of Saturn on 29 January 2031. Scientists are eager to learn more about the comet when it reaches its closest point. They will continue to look at it in the meantime.

<p>Comet C/2014 UN271 (Bernardinelli-Bernstein): The Oort cloud has sent its biggest comet yet towards the inner solar system, and it is travelling at an insane speed, releasing jets of carbon monoxide.</p>

Giant comet from Oort cloud spotted moving at insane speed inside solar system. Will it reach Earth?

<p>Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla has officially entered orbit following the successful launch of the Axiom-4 mission from Kennedy Space Center, Florida.</p><p>The SpaceX Crew Dragon spacecraft lifted off at 12:00 PM IST (2:30 AM EDT) on June 25, 2025, and is now en route to the International Space Station (ISS). Docking is expected at approximately 4:30 PM IST on June 26, after a 28-hour orbital journey.</p><p>This historic flight makes Shukla the first Indian to travel to the ISS, marking a major milestone in India's growing contribution to global space exploration. The mission reflects deepening cooperation between ISRO, NASA, and private partners, reinforcing India's presence in the next era of human spaceflight.</p>

<p>Odisha CM Mohan Charan Majhi called Axiom Mission 4 “bold, ambitious &amp; visionary,” as Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla became India’s second astronaut in space after 41 years. First in ISS. and Odisha Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati said it’s a proud moment that reflects the spirit of a New India.</p>

Axiom 4 Launch Live Updates: Odisha CM Majhi Hails Shubhanshu Shukla’s Historic Axiom Mission 4 Launch

<p>Pride and joy filled the family members of Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla in Lucknow as he became the first Indian to reach the ISS after 41 years. His family watched the launch with happy tears. From space, Shukla said, “The tiranga on my shoulder reminds me I’m with all of you.” The SpaceX Dragon capsule will dock with the ISS at 4 pm IST on June 26.</p>

Axiom 4 Launch Live Updates: Shubhanshu Shukla's family members are very proud as he reaches in space after 41 years

<p>Former ISRO scientist Mylswamy Annadurai praised the progress of Axiom-4 after its launch on SpaceX’s Falcon 9. The crew is expected to dock safely at the ISS by tomorrow. He called it a proud moment as Shubhanshu Shukla became the first indian to reach the space station. Annadurai also echoed Shukla’s message about the tiranga on his shoulder being a symbol of unity and pride.</p>

Axiom 4 Launch Live Updates: Former ISRO scientist Mylswamy Annadurai praised the progress of Axiom Mission 4

<p>SpaceX shares photos of Falcon 9 launching Axiom Mission 4 to the ISS. This marks Dragon’s 18th human spaceflight, carrying Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla and the Axiom Mission 4 crew. Here are the launch images SpaceX posted on X.<img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250625/image-1750854221819.png"></p>

Axiom 4 Launch Live Updates: SpaceX shares photos of Falcon 9 launching axiom mission 4 to the ISS

<p>Axiom 4 Launch Live Updates: SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket made a successful landing at landing zone 1 in Florida after launching Axiom Mission 4 to the ISS. The rocket carried India’s group captain Shubhanshu Shukla and the crew. Here are the photos SpaceX shared on X.<img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250625/image-1750852897402.jpeg"></p>

Axiom 4 Launch Live Updates: SpaceX’s falcon 9 landed safely at landing zone 1 in florida after the Axiom Space 4 launch. 

<p>Axiom 4 Launch Mission Live Updates: "Dr S. Jaishankar posted on his X Best wishes to Group Captain #ShubhanshuShukla and the astronauts from Poland, Hungary and the US, as they embark on #AxiomMission4 to the International Space Station.<img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250625/image-1750849591848.jpeg"></p>

 Axiom 4 Launch Live Updates: Dr S. Jaishankar sends best wishes to axiom-4 crew for a safe journey.

<p>Shubhanshu Shukla’s sister, Shuchi Mishra, told ANI, "We hope everything will go well. We are relaxed and waiting for him to return home safely after 15 days. Our hopes are rising now, we want him to do more missions and make us proud."</p>

Axiom-4 Mission Live Updates: Shubhanshu Shukla’s Sister says 'We are relaxed and waiting for him'

<p>The President of India extended heartfelt congratulations to Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla for marking a historic milestone in India’s space journey by launching into space aboard Axiom Mission 4. In a post on X, the President wrote:<img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250625/image-1750840161473.png"></p>

'My best wishes': President Commends Shubhanshu Shukla on Historic Spaceflight

<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250625/image-1750838453546.png"></figure><p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded the successful launch of Axiom-4, calling it a proud milestone as Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla heads to the International Space Station. “He carries with him the wishes, hopes and aspirations of 1.4 billion Indians,” the PM posted on X. The multinational crew includes astronauts from India, Hungary, Poland, and the US, in a mission seen as pivotal for India’s 2027 Gaganyaan ambitions.</p>

PM Modi Hails Axiom-4 Launch, Calls Shukla Carrier of India’s Aspirations

<p>In a post on X, the Indian Air Force said, "From mastering the skies to reaching for the stars, a journey fuelled by the unwavering spirit of the IAF Air Warrior. Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla embarks on a landmark space mission, carrying the pride of the nation beyond Earth. This marks a déjà vu moment for India, occurring 41 years after the historic flight of Squadron Leader Rakesh Sharma, who was the first to take our Tricolour into space. More than just a mission, it stands as a powerful reaffirmation of India’s ever-expanding frontiers."</p>

From Runways to Orbit: IAF Celebrates Shukla’s Landmark Spaceflight

<p>In Delhi, Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh joined Australian High Commissioner Philip Green, South Australia’s Governor Frances Adamson, and other dignitaries to celebrate the successful launch of the Axiom-4 mission. Marking a proud milestone for India, the gathering honoured Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, currently en route to the International Space Station, by sharing sweets and extending their congratulations.</p>

Leaders in Delhi Celebrate Shukla’s Historic Spaceflight with Sweets and Cheers

<p>Traveling at a staggering speed of 27,000 kilometers per hour, the Dragon spacecraft has entered a stable low Earth orbit at an altitude of approximately 210 km. This high-velocity orbital path allows the capsule to circle the Earth roughly once every 90 minutes. At this speed and altitude, Shubhanshu Shukla and the Axiom-4 crew are now truly in space, experiencing microgravity as they cruise toward their scheduled docking with the International Space Station.</p>

Dragon Cruises at 27,000 km/h in Orbit, Soaring at 208 km Altitude

<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250625/image-1750834081861.jpg"></figure><p>&nbsp;</p><p>As the Dragon capsule successfully reached orbit and separated from the Falcon 9’s second stage, the moment space fans around the world waited for arrived, the appearance of the zero gravity indicator. A small plush toy named ‘Joy’ floated into view inside the cabin, signaling that the crew had officially entered microgravity. For Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla, it marked the first moments of floating freely in space, a milestone in India’s human spaceflight journey. The capsule is now coasting in orbit as it begins its journey to dock with the International Space Station.</p>

Zero Gravity Indicator ‘Joy’ Becomes Visible, Indian Astronaut Now in Zero Gravity

<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250625/image-1750833948453.png"></figure><p>Speaking from orbit aboard the historic Axiom 4 mission, astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla addressed the nation: <i>“This is the beginning of India’s space programme. Every Indian should feel proud. Jai Hind, Jai Bharat.”</i></p><p><br>The mission marks India’s first crewed spaceflight test, a milestone in ISRO’s journey towards sending humans into space independently.</p>

‘This Is Just the Beginning,’ Says Shubhanshu Shukla from Space

<p>The Dragon capsule separates from the second stage, drifting gracefully into free flight. Solar panels deploy, life support systems activate, and the capsule begins its journey toward the International Space Station.</p>

Dragon Separation: On Its Own in Orbit

<p><br>At T+9, the second stage engine shuts down in a manoeuvre called SECO (Second Engine Cut-Off). The capsule has now achieved its intended orbital velocity.</p>

SECO: Second Engine Cut-Off

<p> </p><p><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250625/image-1750833635883.png"><br>The first stage booster performs a controlled entry burn, slowing itself down as it descends through the atmosphere. </p>

Stage 1 Entry Burn & Landing (Booster Recovery)

<p>Following separation, the second stage’s single Merlin Vacuum engine (MVac) ignites in what's called SES-1 (Second Engine Start). The stage begins accelerating the Dragon capsule into low Earth orbit.</p>

SES-1: Second Stage Ignition

Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla is ready to embark on his journey to the International Space Station (ISS) today aboard the Axiom-4 mission. The mission will launch from Kennedy Space Center, Florida, aboard a SpaceX Crew Dragon at 12:00 PM IST (2:30 AM EDT) on June 25, 2025.

Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla has officially entered orbit following the successful launch of the Axiom-4 mission from Kennedy Space Center, Florida. The SpaceX Crew Dragon spacecraft lifted off at 12:00 PM IST (2:30 AM EDT) on June 25, 2025, and is now en route to the International Space Station (ISS). Docking is expected at approximately 4:30 PM IST on June 26, after a 28-hour orbital journey. This historic flight makes Shukla the first Indian to travel to the ISS, marking a major milestone in India's growing contribution to global space exploration. The mission reflects deepening cooperation between ISRO, NASA, and private partners, reinforcing India's presence in the next era of human spaceflight.

<p>Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla is ready to embark on his journey to the International Space Station (ISS) today aboard the Axiom-4 mission. The mission will launch from Kennedy Space Center, Florida, aboard a SpaceX Crew Dragon at 12:00 PM IST (2:30 AM EDT) on June 25, 2025.</p>

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