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A 1,500-year-old map has led humans to discover a lost city from the Byzantine Empire. The Madaba Mosaic Map built during Emperor Justinian’s reign (527-565 A.D.) shows a total of 157 sites that were part of Jordan's Holy Lands. The art piece on a tile is the oldest map available today that shows all these cities. However, most of them have yet to be found. But, now archaeologists might have found one of them.&nbsp;Musallam R. al-Rawahneh, an associate professor of archaeology and ancient Near East studies at Mutah University, made the discovery and published the findings in the journal Gephyra.&nbsp;The team started looking for a city named Tharais, which dates back to the Byzantine Empire. The work started in 2021, and after four years of research, the archaeologists think they might have found it.&nbsp;They started with the Madaba Mosaic map and newer maps that acted as jumping points. Field research was carried out near a modern city called El-’Iraq located near the southeastern edge of the Dead Sea.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/another-lost-city-detected-under-egyptian-pyramid-by-scientists-bu-it-says-expert-1749609642375">Another lost city detected under Egyptian pyramid by scientists who found Khafre cylinders. 'Bu****it', says expert</a>&nbsp;They started discovering clues that hinted at the existence of Tharais in the region years ago. There were remains of mosaic floors, glassware, and various tools that the researchers said showed that an ancient city once lay there.&nbsp;<h2>Religious clues hinted at lost city</h2>&nbsp;What prompted the researchers to be sure that what they had found was indeed Tharais was how everything matched the depiction of the lost city in the Madaba Mosaic map. The gates, ruins, and even towers were the same.&nbsp;However, what nailed everything together were the religious findings. They found features that resembled a Byzantine basilica, a building elongated in one direction with an open-air central room. The team got in touch with Spanish and French researchers to dig deeper.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/20000-year-old-labyrinth-with-3000-rooms-lies-under-egypt-pyramid-9012892">20,000-year-old labyrinth with 3,000 rooms lies under Egypt pyramid, centuries-old claim resurfaces</a>&nbsp;The site threw up more surprises, such as Greek and Latin funerary inscriptions. These confirmed the theological connection of the place as the findings proved that a Christian community once thrived in the region.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/leonardo-da-vinci-painting-secret-tunnels-italian-castle-1748314075573">Secret tunnels seen only in Leonardo da Vinci's painting have been discovered under an ancient Italian castle</a>&nbsp;“The prominence of Tharais on the Madaba Map and the discovery of a basilica church structure suggest that it served not only as an agricultural village but also as a sacred site and commercial rest stop,” al-Rawahneh said, as per a Türkiye Today report.&nbsp;The lost city of Tharais was not only religious, but also economically prosperous, as proven by the discovery of olive oil presses, windmills, and grape crushing equipment.&nbsp;

The team started looking for a city named Tharais, which dates back to the Byzantine Empire. The work started in 2021, and after four years of research, the archaeologists think they might have found it.

A 1,500-year-old map has led humans to discover a lost city from the Byzantine Empire. The Madaba Mosaic Map built during Emperor Justinian’s reign (527-565 A.D.) shows a total of 157 sites that were part of Jordan's Holy Lands. The art piece on a tile is the oldest map available today that shows all these cities. However, most of them have yet to be found. But, now archaeologists might have found one of them. Musallam R. al-Rawahneh, an associate professor of archaeology and ancient Near East studies at Mutah University, made the discovery and published the findings in the journal Gephyra. The team started looking for a city named Tharais, which dates back to the Byzantine Empire. The work started in 2021, and after four years of research, the archaeologists think they might have found it. They started with the Madaba Mosaic map and newer maps that acted as jumping points. Field research was carried out near a modern city called El-’Iraq located near the southeastern edge of the Dead Sea. Also Read: Another lost city detected under Egyptian pyramid by scientists who found Khafre cylinders. 'Bu****it', says expert They started discovering clues that hinted at the existence of Tharais in the region years ago. There were remains of mosaic floors, glassware, and various tools that the researchers said showed that an ancient city once lay there. Religious clues hinted at lost city What prompted the researchers to be sure that what they had found was indeed Tharais was how everything matched the depiction of the lost city in the Madaba Mosaic map. The gates, ruins, and even towers were the same. However, what nailed everything together were the religious findings. They found features that resembled a Byzantine basilica, a building elongated in one direction with an open-air central room. The team got in touch with Spanish and French researchers to dig deeper. Also Read: 20,000-year-old labyrinth with 3,000 rooms lies under Egypt pyramid, centuries-old claim resurfaces The site threw up more surprises, such as Greek and Latin funerary inscriptions. These confirmed the theological connection of the place as the findings proved that a Christian community once thrived in the region. Also Read: Secret tunnels seen only in Leonardo da Vinci's painting have been discovered under an ancient Italian castle “The prominence of Tharais on the Madaba Map and the discovery of a basilica church structure suggest that it served not only as an agricultural village but also as a sacred site and commercial rest stop,” al-Rawahneh said, as per a Türkiye Today report. The lost city of Tharais was not only religious, but also economically prosperous, as proven by the discovery of olive oil presses, windmills, and grape crushing equipment.

The team started looking for a city named Tharais, which dates back to the Byzantine Empire. The work started in 2021, and after four years of research, the archaeologists think they might have found it.

The lost city of Tharais once part of Jordan's Holy Lands has been found

NASA has upped the chances of asteroid 2024 YR4 hitting the Moon in 2032 from 3.8 to 4.3 per cent. The space rock stirred panic among Earthlings earlier this year when scientists noticed that it was on a trajectory that would lead to a collision with Earth in eight years. Multiple calculations and weeks later, everyone heaves a sigh of relief. The good news was that asteroid 2024 YR4, 53-67 metres in diameter, about the size of a 10-storey building, was not moving towards our planet. But the bad news was that it is on course to smash into our Moon.&nbsp;It might not exactly be bad news since the Moon is already riddled with craters, and one more wouldn't make any difference. However, there were fears that the collision might move our lunar satellite out of its orbit.&nbsp;While the probability of the asteroid crashing into it has increased, experts have clarified that the Moon's orbit won't be impacted in any way by the asteroid.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/nasa-says-asteroid-2024-yr4-can-hit-the-moon-8776642">'Once in 1,000 years...': NASA says asteroid 2024 YR4 can hit the Moon. Is Earth safe?</a>&nbsp;<h2>James Webb observed asteroid 2024 YR4</h2>&nbsp;The James Webb Space Telescope continued to observe the asteroid even though it had moved far away from Earth. The last of them came in May, when the data suggested a higher chance of collision with the Moon.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/nasa-bumps-up-probability-of-city-killer-asteroid-2024-yr4-slamming-into-our-planet-earth-in-8-years-8735944">NASA bumps up probability of 'city killer' asteroid 2024-YR4 slamming into our planet Earth in 8 years</a>&nbsp;Andy Rivkin, a planetary astronomer at the Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory, and his team used Webb’s Near-Infrared Camera to monitor the asteroid. NASA said that this data improved their prediction of where the asteroid will be on December 22, 2032 by 20 per cent.&nbsp;<h2>Asteroid will return in 2028</h2>&nbsp;Now, asteroid 2024 YR4 has snuck behind the sun and is no longer visible. Its next appearance is not scheduled until 2028. Scientists are planning to observe it again to see if there is a further change in its trajectory. NASA has not said anything about whether or not its impact probability could evolve in the next few years.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/how-will-earth-die-solar-system-sun-mercury-venus-rogue-star-1748688088180">One planet will trigger the death of everyone in the solar system. A star will aid and abet</a>&nbsp;Scientists are gearing up to see the asteroid colliding with the Moon in 2032, if it happens. They plan on seeing the action live if it hits the Earth-facing side.&nbsp;Asteroid 2024 YR4 was first seen by the Asteroid Terrestrial-impact Last Alert System (ATLAS) in Chile in December 2024. It was 829,000 kilometres away from Earth at the time. Alarm bells started to ring when scientists said that it could hit Earth in 2032. There was about a 1 per cent chance of this happening on December 22, 2032. This increased to 3 per cent in the next few weeks. However, before NASA could begin scrambling for tools to deflect and break the asteroid, experts confirmed that Earth is safe.&nbsp; &nbsp;

The Moon might face fury from an asteroid in about eight years as the James Webb telescope discovers more about a space rock that once threatened Earth. 

NASA has upped the chances of asteroid 2024 YR4 hitting the Moon in 2032 from 3.8 to 4.3 per cent. The space rock stirred panic among Earthlings earlier this year when scientists noticed that it was on a trajectory that would lead to a collision with Earth in eight years. Multiple calculations and weeks later, everyone heaves a sigh of relief. The good news was that asteroid 2024 YR4, 53-67 metres in diameter, about the size of a 10-storey building, was not moving towards our planet. But the bad news was that it is on course to smash into our Moon. It might not exactly be bad news since the Moon is already riddled with craters, and one more wouldn't make any difference. However, there were fears that the collision might move our lunar satellite out of its orbit. While the probability of the asteroid crashing into it has increased, experts have clarified that the Moon's orbit won't be impacted in any way by the asteroid. Also Read: 'Once in 1,000 years...': NASA says asteroid 2024 YR4 can hit the Moon. Is Earth safe? James Webb observed asteroid 2024 YR4 The James Webb Space Telescope continued to observe the asteroid even though it had moved far away from Earth. The last of them came in May, when the data suggested a higher chance of collision with the Moon. Also Read: NASA bumps up probability of 'city killer' asteroid 2024-YR4 slamming into our planet Earth in 8 years Andy Rivkin, a planetary astronomer at the Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory, and his team used Webb’s Near-Infrared Camera to monitor the asteroid. NASA said that this data improved their prediction of where the asteroid will be on December 22, 2032 by 20 per cent. Asteroid will return in 2028 Now, asteroid 2024 YR4 has snuck behind the sun and is no longer visible. Its next appearance is not scheduled until 2028. Scientists are planning to observe it again to see if there is a further change in its trajectory. NASA has not said anything about whether or not its impact probability could evolve in the next few years. Also Read: One planet will trigger the death of everyone in the solar system. A star will aid and abet Scientists are gearing up to see the asteroid colliding with the Moon in 2032, if it happens. They plan on seeing the action live if it hits the Earth-facing side. Asteroid 2024 YR4 was first seen by the Asteroid Terrestrial-impact Last Alert System (ATLAS) in Chile in December 2024. It was 829,000 kilometres away from Earth at the time. Alarm bells started to ring when scientists said that it could hit Earth in 2032. There was about a 1 per cent chance of this happening on December 22, 2032. This increased to 3 per cent in the next few weeks. However, before NASA could begin scrambling for tools to deflect and break the asteroid, experts confirmed that Earth is safe.

The Moon might face fury from an asteroid in about eight years as the James Webb telescope discovers more about a space rock that once threatened Earth.&nbsp;

What will happen on Dec 22, 2032? Not good things for our Moon, as scientists await major event

Axiom-4 mission postponed again due to Falcon 9 fuel leak, launch halted after liquid oxygen leak during Falcon 9 testThe launch of the Axiom-4 (Ax-4) mission to the International Space Station (ISS) has been postponed again, after a liquid oxygen (LOX) leak was discovered in the propulsion bay of the Falcon 9 rocket during pre-launch testing. The mission was scheduled to lift off on 11 June 2025 at 5:30 PM IST.&nbsp;SpaceX shared the update on X, saying, “Standing down from tomorrow’s Falcon 9 launch of Ax-4 to the ISS to allow additional time for SpaceX teams to repair the LOX leak identified during post-static fire booster inspections.”&nbsp;The team will now carry out repairs and run validation tests before announcing a new launch date.<h2>ISRO confirms delay, repair work underway</h2>ISRO Chairman Dr V Narayanan also confirmed the delay on X, explaining that a seven-second hot test was conducted on the launch pad as part of regular preparations. During this test, engineers identified the leak.&nbsp;He added that ISRO, Axiom Space, and SpaceX experts jointly decided to correct the issue and validate the system before moving forward with launch approval.&nbsp;The Ax-4 mission has already faced several delays, having been pushed from May 29 to June 8, then June 10, and most recently to June 11. and then now.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Postponement of Axiom 04 mission slated for launch on 11th June 2025 for sending first Indian Gaganyatri to ISS. As part of launch vehicle preparation to validate the performance of booster stage of Falcon 9 launch vehicle, seven second of hot test was carried out on the launch…&mdash; ISRO (@isro) <a href="https://twitter.com/isro/status/1932605652360442184?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 11, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Shukla’s historic spaceflight postponed</h2>The mission is especially important for India, as it will carry Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, the first Indian to visit the ISS and the second Indian astronaut in space after Rakesh Sharma in 1984.&nbsp;Shukla will serve as the pilot of the Ax-4 mission. Peggy Whitson from the United States will command the crew, with Slawosz Uznanski-Wisniewski (Poland) and Tibor Kapu (Hungary) joining as mission specialists.<h2>Science experiments on food, nutrition, and algae in space</h2>Once aboard the ISS, Shukla will conduct experiments on food and nutrition in space, in a collaboration between ISRO, the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), and NASA.&nbsp;The research will focus on the growth and behaviour of edible microalgae in microgravity and space radiation. The goal is to develop self-sustaining life support systems for long-duration space missions.

Axiom 4 launch to ISS delayed again due to Falcon 9's liquid oxygen leak found during pre launch tests. Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla's historic spaceflight postponed. repairs underway; New launch date still awaited.

Axiom-4 mission postponed again due to Falcon 9 fuel leak, launch halted after liquid oxygen leak during Falcon 9 test The launch of the Axiom-4 (Ax-4) mission to the International Space Station (ISS) has been postponed again, after a liquid oxygen (LOX) leak was discovered in the propulsion bay of the Falcon 9 rocket during pre-launch testing. The mission was scheduled to lift off on 11 June 2025 at 5:30 PM IST. SpaceX shared the update on X, saying, “Standing down from tomorrow’s Falcon 9 launch of Ax-4 to the ISS to allow additional time for SpaceX teams to repair the LOX leak identified during post-static fire booster inspections.” The team will now carry out repairs and run validation tests before announcing a new launch date. ISRO confirms delay, repair work underway ISRO Chairman Dr V Narayanan also confirmed the delay on X, explaining that a seven-second hot test was conducted on the launch pad as part of regular preparations. During this test, engineers identified the leak. He added that ISRO, Axiom Space, and SpaceX experts jointly decided to correct the issue and validate the system before moving forward with launch approval. The Ax-4 mission has already faced several delays, having been pushed from May 29 to June 8, then June 10, and most recently to June 11. and then now.

Axiom-4 launch to ISS delayed again due to Falcon 9's liquid oxygen leak found during pre-launch tests. Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla's historic spaceflight postponed. repairs underway; New launch date still awaited.

Another Axiom-4 mission delay: What caused SpaceX Falcon 9’s oxygen leak before Shubhanshu Shukla’s historic spaceflight?

The Axiom-4 mission represents a historic milestone for India's space programme, marking the first time an Indian astronaut would visit the International Space Station (ISS). Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, a decorated Indian Air Force pilot, was set to become India's second astronaut in space after Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma's pioneering journey in 1984. This mission is a collaborative effort between the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), NASA, and Axiom Space, showcasing India's growing partnership in international space exploration.&nbsp;The mission is particularly significant as it marks the return to human spaceflight for India, Poland, and Hungary after more than 40 years. The crew of four includes Commander Peggy Whitson (a veteran NASA astronaut), Pilot Shubhanshu Shukla from India, and mission specialists Sławosz Uznański-Wiśniewski from Poland and Tibor Kapu from Hungary. During their planned two-week stay at the ISS, the crew was scheduled to conduct over 60 scientific experiments representing 31 countries, making it one of the most research-intensive missions to the space station.<h2>Technical issue: Understanding what went wrong</h2>The Axiom-4 mission, originally scheduled for launch on June 11, 2025, has been postponed due to a critical technical issue discovered during pre-launch testing. To understand why this postponement was necessary, let's break down the technical terms in simple language.<h2>What is a static fire test?</h2>Think of a static fire test as a "dress rehearsal" for the rocket's engines. Just like how a pilot tests an aircraft engine before takeoff, rocket engineers fire up the rocket's engines while it's still firmly bolted to the launch pad. The rocket doesn't move anywhere – it's held down by massive clamps and restraints.&nbsp;During this test, the rocket's engines roar to life for a few seconds, allowing engineers to check if everything is working properly. They monitor fuel flow, engine performance, temperatures, pressures, and hundreds of other parameters. It's like taking your car to a mechanic who revs the engine while it's parked to check if it's running smoothly.<h2>What does ‘seven-second hot test’ mean?</h2>A "seven second hot test" simply means the rocket engines were fired for exactly seven seconds during the static fire test. Why seven seconds? This duration is long enough to check all the engine systems and parameters, but short enough to conserve fuel and minimise wear on the equipment.&nbsp;Imagine lighting a gas stove burner for seven seconds – long enough to see if it ignites properly, burns steadily, and has the right flame colour, but not so long that you waste gas or overheat the stove. Similarly, seven seconds gives engineers enough data to verify that the rocket engines are performing as expected.<h2>Understanding rocket anatomy: Booster stage and propulsion bay</h2>To understand where the leak occurred, it's helpful to know how a rocket is structured. Think of the Falcon 9 rocket as a multi-story building:&nbsp;Booster stage (first stage): This is the bottom section of the rocket – like the ground floor of a building. It contains nine powerful Merlin engines and does the heavy lifting during launch. Just as the ground floor supports the entire building, the booster stage supports the entire rocket and provides the main thrust to lift off from Earth and climb through the atmosphere. After about 2-3 minutes of flight, when the rocket reaches a certain altitude, this stage separates and either lands back on Earth (for reuse) or falls into the ocean.&nbsp;Propulsion bay: Think of this as the "engine room" within the booster stage. Just like a ship has an engine room where all the machinery is housed, the propulsion bay contains all the equipment that feeds fuel and oxygen to the rocket engines. This includes pumps, valves, pipes, tanks, and control systems. It's like the kitchen of a restaurant – you don't see it from the dining area, but it's where all the important work happens to make everything function.The propulsion bay is located at the bottom of the booster stage, surrounding and supporting the nine Merlin engines. When engineers say they found a leak "in the propulsion bay," they mean somewhere in this engine room area – possibly in the pipes carrying liquid oxygen, the valves controlling flow, or the connections between different components.<h2>What is LOX and why is it critical?</h2>LOX stands for Liquid Oxygen – basically, the oxygen we breathe, but super-cooled to -183°C (-297°F) until it becomes a liquid. Why use liquid instead of gas? Imagine trying to carry enough air for a long journey – you'd need enormous tanks. But if you could compress all that air into liquid form, you'd need much smaller containers. That's exactly why rockets use liquid oxygen.&nbsp;In a rocket engine, fuel (like kerosene) cannot burn without oxygen – just like a candle cannot burn in a vacuum. Since space has no air, rockets must carry their own oxygen supply. LOX serves as this oxygen source, mixing with fuel to create the controlled explosions that propel the rocket forward.&nbsp;The leaked LOX is like having a gas leak in your kitchen – potentially dangerous and definitely something that needs immediate attention before you can safely cook (or in this case, launch).<h2>How was the leak discovered, and why is it dangerous?</h2>During the seven-second hot test, sensors and cameras monitor every aspect of the rocket's performance. Engineers detected that LOX was escaping from somewhere in the propulsion bay – possibly from a valve, pipe joint, or seal that wasn't holding properly.While this might sound minor, a LOX leak is extremely serious for several reasons:&nbsp;Fire and explosion risk: LOX makes everything around it highly flammable. Even materials that normally don't burn easily can ignite violently in the presence of concentrated oxygen. It's like having a super-charged environment where any spark could cause a massive fire.Extreme cold damage: At -183°C, escaping LOX can freeze and damage other components in the propulsion bay. Imagine pouring liquid nitrogen on electronic equipment – it can crack pipes, freeze valves shut, and make metal components brittle.Engine performance issues: If LOX is leaking out, it means the engines aren't getting the right amount of oxygen for proper combustion. This could cause engines to perform poorly, shut down unexpectedly, or even explode during flight.Crew safety: With four astronauts aboard, any system malfunction during launch could be catastrophic. The launch and initial ascent are the most dangerous parts of any space mission.<h2>Why was this postponement was necessary?</h2>Some people might wonder if such a delay is really necessary for what seems like a small leak. However, the space industry has learned from tragic accidents that seemingly minor problems can lead to disasters.&nbsp;The postponement demonstrates several important principles:&nbsp;Zero tolerance for known risks: In human spaceflight, there's a rule – if you know about a problem, you fix it before flying. No exceptions. This approach has made modern spaceflight much safer than it was in earlier decades.International standards: The collaboration between ISRO, SpaceX, Axiom Space, and NASA means that the highest international safety standards must be met. Each organization has its own rigorous requirements, and all must be satisfied.Learning from history: Space agencies remember accidents like the Challenger and Columbia disasters, where small problems led to tragic losses. Today's cautious approach prevents such tragedies.&nbsp;Technical excellence: India's participation in this mission showcases the country's commitment to world-class space operations. Being willing to delay shows ISRO's dedication to doing things right, not just fast.&nbsp;The Repair Process: What happens next&nbsp;Fixing the LOX leak involves several steps:&nbsp;Finding the Exact Problem: Engineers must locate exactly where the leak is occurring. This might involve detailed inspections, pressure tests, and examining every component in the propulsion bay.&nbsp;Making Repairs: Depending on the source, repairs might involve replacing faulty seals, tightening connections, or swapping out damaged components entirely.&nbsp;Testing the Fix: After repairs, engineers will run more tests to ensure the problem is solved and no new issues have been created.&nbsp;Final Validation: Multiple safety reviews and possibly another static fire test will verify that everything is working perfectly.&nbsp;Regulatory Approval: NASA and other authorities must approve all repairs before giving permission for launch.&nbsp;This process might take days or weeks, depending on the complexity of the problem. But this time investment is essential for mission success and crew safety.&nbsp;A Symbol of Responsible Space Exploration&nbsp;While disappointing for those eagerly awaiting this historic mission, the postponement actually demonstrates the maturity of India's space programme. ISRO's willingness to delay the mission shows that the organization prioritizes safety over schedule pressure – a hallmark of world-class space agencies.&nbsp;This careful approach ensures that when Group Captain Shukla finally makes his journey to space, it will be as safe as humanly possible. The delay also allows time for additional preparations and checks, potentially making the eventual mission even more successful.&nbsp;Looking ForwardThe Axiom-4 mission will eventually launch, carrying with it the hopes and dreams of millions of Indians. When it does, Group Captain Shukla will not only make history as the first Indian to visit the ISS but will also represent India's commitment to international cooperation and technical excellence in space exploration.&nbsp;The postponement serves as a reminder that space travel, despite decades of advancement, remains one of humanity's most challenging endeavors. Every successful mission is built on countless hours of careful preparation, testing, and unwavering attention to safety. This methodical approach is what makes it possible for humans to safely journey to the stars.&nbsp;In the words often used in the space industry: "Better to be on the ground wishing you were in space, than in space wishing you were on the ground." The current delay ensures that when the Axiom-4 crew finally reaches the ISS, they'll arrive safely and ready to conduct groundbreaking research that will benefit all of humanity.

Axiom-4 mission is a collaborative effort between the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), NASA, and Axiom Space, showcasing India's growing partnership in international space exploration.

The Axiom-4 mission represents a historic milestone for India's space programme, marking the first time an Indian astronaut would visit the International Space Station (ISS). Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, a decorated Indian Air Force pilot, was set to become India's second astronaut in space after Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma's pioneering journey in 1984. This mission is a collaborative effort between the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), NASA, and Axiom Space, showcasing India's growing partnership in international space exploration. The mission is particularly significant as it marks the return to human spaceflight for India, Poland, and Hungary after more than 40 years. The crew of four includes Commander Peggy Whitson (a veteran NASA astronaut), Pilot Shubhanshu Shukla from India, and mission specialists Sławosz Uznański-Wiśniewski from Poland and Tibor Kapu from Hungary. During their planned two-week stay at the ISS, the crew was scheduled to conduct over 60 scientific experiments representing 31 countries, making it one of the most research-intensive missions to the space station. Technical issue: Understanding what went wrong The Axiom-4 mission, originally scheduled for launch on June 11, 2025, has been postponed due to a critical technical issue discovered during pre-launch testing. To understand why this postponement was necessary, let's break down the technical terms in simple language. What is a static fire test? Think of a static fire test as a "dress rehearsal" for the rocket's engines. Just like how a pilot tests an aircraft engine before takeoff, rocket engineers fire up the rocket's engines while it's still firmly bolted to the launch pad. The rocket doesn't move anywhere – it's held down by massive clamps and restraints. During this test, the rocket's engines roar to life for a few seconds, allowing engineers to check if everything is working properly. They monitor fuel flow, engine performance, temperatures, pressures, and hundreds of other parameters. It's like taking your car to a mechanic who revs the engine while it's parked to check if it's running smoothly. What does ‘seven-second hot test’ mean? A "seven second hot test" simply means the rocket engines were fired for exactly seven seconds during the static fire test. Why seven seconds? This duration is long enough to check all the engine systems and parameters, but short enough to conserve fuel and minimise wear on the equipment. Imagine lighting a gas stove burner for seven seconds – long enough to see if it ignites properly, burns steadily, and has the right flame colour, but not so long that you waste gas or overheat the stove. Similarly, seven seconds gives engineers enough data to verify that the rocket engines are performing as expected. Understanding rocket anatomy: Booster stage and propulsion bay To understand where the leak occurred, it's helpful to know how a rocket is structured. Think of the Falcon 9 rocket as a multi-story building: Booster stage (first stage): This is the bottom section of the rocket – like the ground floor of a building. It contains nine powerful Merlin engines and does the heavy lifting during launch. Just as the ground floor supports the entire building, the booster stage supports the entire rocket and provides the main thrust to lift off from Earth and climb through the atmosphere. After about 2-3 minutes of flight, when the rocket reaches a certain altitude, this stage separates and either lands back on Earth (for reuse) or falls into the ocean. Propulsion bay: Think of this as the "engine room" within the booster stage. Just like a ship has an engine room where all the machinery is housed, the propulsion bay contains all the equipment that feeds fuel and oxygen to the rocket engines. This includes pumps, valves, pipes, tanks, and control systems. It's like the kitchen of a restaurant – you don't see it from the dining area, but it's where all the important work happens to make everything function. The propulsion bay is located at the bottom of the booster stage, surrounding and supporting the nine Merlin engines. When engineers say they found a leak "in the propulsion bay," they mean somewhere in this engine room area – possibly in the pipes carrying liquid oxygen, the valves controlling flow, or the connections between different components. What is LOX and why is it critical? LOX stands for Liquid Oxygen – basically, the oxygen we breathe, but super-cooled to -183°C (-297°F) until it becomes a liquid. Why use liquid instead of gas? Imagine trying to carry enough air for a long journey – you'd need enormous tanks. But if you could compress all that air into liquid form, you'd need much smaller containers. That's exactly why rockets use liquid oxygen. In a rocket engine, fuel (like kerosene) cannot burn without oxygen – just like a candle cannot burn in a vacuum. Since space has no air, rockets must carry their own oxygen supply. LOX serves as this oxygen source, mixing with fuel to create the controlled explosions that propel the rocket forward. The leaked LOX is like having a gas leak in your kitchen – potentially dangerous and definitely something that needs immediate attention before you can safely cook (or in this case, launch). How was the leak discovered, and why is it dangerous? During the seven-second hot test, sensors and cameras monitor every aspect of the rocket's performance. Engineers detected that LOX was escaping from somewhere in the propulsion bay – possibly from a valve, pipe joint, or seal that wasn't holding properly. While this might sound minor, a LOX leak is extremely serious for several reasons: Fire and explosion risk: LOX makes everything around it highly flammable. Even materials that normally don't burn easily can ignite violently in the presence of concentrated oxygen. It's like having a super-charged environment where any spark could cause a massive fire. Extreme cold damage: At -183°C, escaping LOX can freeze and damage other components in the propulsion bay. Imagine pouring liquid nitrogen on electronic equipment – it can crack pipes, freeze valves shut, and make metal components brittle. Engine performance issues: If LOX is leaking out, it means the engines aren't getting the right amount of oxygen for proper combustion. This could cause engines to perform poorly, shut down unexpectedly, or even explode during flight. Crew safety: With four astronauts aboard, any system malfunction during launch could be catastrophic. The launch and initial ascent are the most dangerous parts of any space mission. Why was this postponement was necessary? Some people might wonder if such a delay is really necessary for what seems like a small leak. However, the space industry has learned from tragic accidents that seemingly minor problems can lead to disasters. The postponement demonstrates several important principles: Zero tolerance for known risks: In human spaceflight, there's a rule – if you know about a problem, you fix it before flying. No exceptions. This approach has made modern spaceflight much safer than it was in earlier decades. International standards: The collaboration between ISRO, SpaceX, Axiom Space, and NASA means that the highest international safety standards must be met. Each organization has its own rigorous requirements, and all must be satisfied. Learning from history: Space agencies remember accidents like the Challenger and Columbia disasters, where small problems led to tragic losses. Today's cautious approach prevents such tragedies. Technical excellence: India's participation in this mission showcases the country's commitment to world-class space operations. Being willing to delay shows ISRO's dedication to doing things right, not just fast. The Repair Process: What happens next Fixing the LOX leak involves several steps: Finding the Exact Problem: Engineers must locate exactly where the leak is occurring. This might involve detailed inspections, pressure tests, and examining every component in the propulsion bay. Making Repairs: Depending on the source, repairs might involve replacing faulty seals, tightening connections, or swapping out damaged components entirely. Testing the Fix: After repairs, engineers will run more tests to ensure the problem is solved and no new issues have been created. Final Validation: Multiple safety reviews and possibly another static fire test will verify that everything is working perfectly. Regulatory Approval: NASA and other authorities must approve all repairs before giving permission for launch. This process might take days or weeks, depending on the complexity of the problem. But this time investment is essential for mission success and crew safety. A Symbol of Responsible Space Exploration While disappointing for those eagerly awaiting this historic mission, the postponement actually demonstrates the maturity of India's space programme. ISRO's willingness to delay the mission shows that the organization prioritizes safety over schedule pressure – a hallmark of world-class space agencies. This careful approach ensures that when Group Captain Shukla finally makes his journey to space, it will be as safe as humanly possible. The delay also allows time for additional preparations and checks, potentially making the eventual mission even more successful. Looking Forward The Axiom-4 mission will eventually launch, carrying with it the hopes and dreams of millions of Indians. When it does, Group Captain Shukla will not only make history as the first Indian to visit the ISS but will also represent India's commitment to international cooperation and technical excellence in space exploration. The postponement serves as a reminder that space travel, despite decades of advancement, remains one of humanity's most challenging endeavors. Every successful mission is built on countless hours of careful preparation, testing, and unwavering attention to safety. This methodical approach is what makes it possible for humans to safely journey to the stars. In the words often used in the space industry: "Better to be on the ground wishing you were in space, than in space wishing you were on the ground." The current delay ensures that when the Axiom-4 crew finally reaches the ISS, they'll arrive safely and ready to conduct groundbreaking research that will benefit all of humanity.

Axiom-4 mission is a collaborative effort between the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), NASA, and Axiom Space, showcasing India's growing partnership in international space exploration.

Axiom-4 mission delayed again: Understanding LOX leak issue

SpaceX has once again postponed the launch of the Axiom-4 mission carrying India’s Shubhanshu Shukla and three others to the International Space Station, saying that additional time is needed “to repair the LOx leak identified during post static fire booster inspections” on the Falcon 9 rocket.&nbsp;It is the second time that the space mission has been delayed. Earlier, the mission was postponed from June 10 to June 11 due to weather conditions. SpaceX said that a new launch date will be announced later.&nbsp;&nbsp;In a statement, the space company said on X, “Standing down from tomorrow’s Falcon 9 launch of Ax-4 to the Space Station to allow additional time for SpaceX teams to repair the LOx leak identified during post static fire booster inspections."&nbsp;It added, "Once complete – and pending Range availability – we will share a new launch date.”&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Standing down from tomorrow’s Falcon 9 launch of Ax-4 to the <a href="https://twitter.com/Space_Station?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Space_Station</a> to allow additional time for SpaceX teams to repair the LOx leak identified during post static fire booster inspections. Once complete – and pending Range availability – we will share a new launch date <a href="https://t.co/FwRc8k2Bc0">pic.twitter.com/FwRc8k2Bc0</a>&mdash; SpaceX (@SpaceX) <a href="https://twitter.com/SpaceX/status/1932599956336173058?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 11, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;The Indian Space Research Organisation issued a similar statement regarding the delay of the space mission.&nbsp;“As part of launch vehicle preparation to validate the performance of booster stage of Falcon 9 launch vehicle, seven second of hot test was carried out on the launch pad. It is understood that LOX leakage was detected in the propulsion bay during the test,” ISRO chairman V Narayanan said a statement on X.&nbsp;“Based on the discussion on this topic by ISRO team with the experts of Axiom and SpaceX it has been decided to correct the leak and carry out necessary validation test before clearing for the launch. Hence the launch of Axiom 04 slated for &nbsp;11th June 2025 for sending first Indian Gaganyatri to ISS is postponed,” the statement added.&nbsp;Earlier on Tuesday (Jun 10), the space agencies said they were closely watching weather patterns at the Kennedy Space Centre in Florida.&nbsp;

SpaceX said that additional time is needed “to repair the LOx leak identified during post static fire booster inspections” on the Falcon 9 rocket.

SpaceX has once again postponed the launch of the Axiom-4 mission carrying India’s Shubhanshu Shukla and three others to the International Space Station, saying that additional time is needed “to repair the LOx leak identified during post static fire booster inspections” on the Falcon 9 rocket. It is the second time that the space mission has been delayed. Earlier, the mission was postponed from June 10 to June 11 due to weather conditions. SpaceX said that a new launch date will be announced later. In a statement, the space company said on X, “Standing down from tomorrow’s Falcon 9 launch of Ax-4 to the Space Station to allow additional time for SpaceX teams to repair the LOx leak identified during post static fire booster inspections." It added, "Once complete – and pending Range availability – we will share a new launch date.”

SpaceX said that additional time is needed “to repair the LOx leak identified during post static fire booster inspections” on the Falcon 9 rocket.

SpaceX postpones launch of Axiom-4 mission carrying India’s Shubhanshu Shukla again

SpaceX is ready to launch Axiom-4 mission on 11 june, weather 85 per cent favourableFalcon 9 and Dragon set for liftoff on 11 JuneSpaceX has confirmed that all systems are ready for the Axiom Mission 4 to the International Space Station (ISS). The launch is scheduled for Wednesday, 11 June 2025 at 8:00 AM ET (which is 5:30 PM IST) from Launch Complex 39A at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida.&nbsp;In a post on X, SpaceX shared a picture of Falcon 9 and Dragon at sunrise and stated that weather conditions are 85 per cent favourable for liftoff. However, teams are closely watching high winds in the ascent corridor. If needed, a backup launch window is available on Thursday, 12 June at 7:37 AM ET.&nbsp;A live webcast will begin two hours before the launch on X (@SpaceX) and the X TV app.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Falcon 9 and Dragon at sunrise ahead of tomorrow’s launch of <a href="https://twitter.com/Axiom_Space?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Axiom_Space</a>’s Ax-4 mission. Weather is 85% favorable for liftoff, with teams continuing to monitor high-winds in the ascent corridor → <a href="https://t.co/LU1wyD7X9s">https://t.co/LU1wyD7X9s</a> <a href="https://t.co/eCgQdX7pXo">pic.twitter.com/eCgQdX7pXo</a>&mdash; SpaceX (@SpaceX) <a href="https://twitter.com/SpaceX/status/1932462979800293810?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 10, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Dragon and Falcon 9 ready for flight</h2>This is the first mission for the Dragon spacecraft assigned to Ax-4, while the Falcon 9 rocket booster has flown once before for a Starlink mission. After separating from the rocket, the first stage will attempt to land at Landing Zone 1 (LZ-1) at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station.&nbsp;The Ax-4 crew will travel to the ISS for a 14-day stay, during which they will carry out around 60 scientific experiments. These include research on human health, Earth observation, and life and material sciences.<h2>Axiom Mission 4 crew and India’s role</h2>The Ax-4 crew consists of four astronauts from four different countries. The team includes:&nbsp;Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla from India (Pilot)&nbsp;Peggy Whitson from the United States (Commander)&nbsp;Sławosz Uznański from Poland (Mission Specialist)&nbsp;Tibor Kapu from Hungary (Mission Specialist)&nbsp;Shubhanshu Shukla becomes the first Indian astronaut in over 41 years to travel to space, making this a key moment for India’s growing presence in global space missions.<h2>Axiom Mission 4</h2>Axiom Mission 4 is the fourth private mission organised by Axiom Space to the International Space Station. It brings together astronauts from four countries and aims to expand international scientific collaboration in space.&nbsp;The mission will test technologies and conduct research that could help shape future space travel, including Axiom’s goal to build the world’s first commercial space station in the coming years.

SpaceX will launch Axiom Mission 4 to the ISS on 11 June 2025 at 8:00 am ET. India’s Shubhanshu Shukla joins the international crew, marking a historic return for India to space after 41 years. The weather is 85% favorable.

SpaceX is ready to launch Axiom-4 mission on 11 june, weather 85 per cent favourable Falcon 9 and Dragon set for liftoff on 11 June SpaceX has confirmed that all systems are ready for the Axiom Mission 4 to the International Space Station (ISS). The launch is scheduled for Wednesday, 11 June 2025 at 8:00 AM ET (which is 5:30 PM IST) from Launch Complex 39A at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. In a post on X, SpaceX shared a picture of Falcon 9 and Dragon at sunrise and stated that weather conditions are 85 per cent favourable for liftoff. However, teams are closely watching high winds in the ascent corridor. If needed, a backup launch window is available on Thursday, 12 June at 7:37 AM ET. A live webcast will begin two hours before the launch on X (@SpaceX) and the X TV app.

SpaceX will launch Axiom Mission 4 to the ISS on 11 June 2025 at 8:00 am ET. India’s Shubhanshu Shukla joins the international crew, marking a historic return for India to space after 41 years. The weather is 85 per cent favorable.

Axiom Mission 4: SpaceX set for 11 June launch from Florida

Scientists have created a violin that is smaller than a single strand of human hair, almost the same size as a speck of dust. You cannot play it, but it is still a standing proof of how much technology has evolved. The violin has been made by scientists at Loughborough University, Earth.com reported. It measures only 35 microns long and 13 microns wide - one micron is one-millionth of a meter.In comparison, even tardigrades, the infamous "water bears" that have become famous for surviving exposure to the vacuum of space, are much larger than the violin. Tardigrades typically measure between 50 and 1,200 microns.Why did they choose to create the violin? It is supposedly an ode to the phrase - “Can you hear the world’s smallest violin playing just for you?”&nbsp;<h2>Violin showcases nanoscale technology at the university</h2>&nbsp;A lot of research and sophisticated technology went into creating the violin. The university has a new nanolithography system, a platform that can work at the nanoscale. Scientists wanted to show off its calibre, and so decided to create the tiny violin.“Though creating the world’s smallest violin may seem like fun and games, a lot of what we’ve learned in the process has actually laid the groundwork for the research we’re now undertaking,” Professor Kelly Morrison, head of the Physics Department, said.The scientists at the university used a machine called the NanoFrazor to make the violin. A process called thermal scanning probe lithography was used, in which a heated tip, as sharp as a needle "writes" detailed designs at the nanoscale.Two layers of a gel-like material, called a resist, are coated on a chip, after which a violin design is etched into the top layer using the NanoFrazor. Once set, the exposed areas are dissolved, and a violin-shaped cavity remains. "Platinum is then applied in a thin coat, and the remaining material is rinsed away to reveal the miniature instrument."Gloveboxes and sealed chambers are used to avoid any kind of contamination, while robotic arms are used to move the chip.The team created several tiny violins before making the final version that took months to perfect.Professor Morrison says that the method can be used to "develop new technologies."“Once we understand how materials behave, we can start applying that knowledge to develop new technologies. But first, we need to understand the fundamental science and this system enables us to do just that.”

Scientists have created a violin that is smaller than a single strand of human hair, almost the same size as a speck of dust. You cannot play it, but it is still a standing proof of how much technology has evolved.

Scientists have created a violin that is smaller than a single strand of human hair, almost the same size as a speck of dust. You cannot play it, but it is still a standing proof of how much technology has evolved. The violin has been made by scientists at Loughborough University, Earth.com reported. It measures only 35 microns long and 13 microns wide - one micron is one-millionth of a meter. In comparison, even tardigrades, the infamous "water bears" that have become famous for surviving exposure to the vacuum of space, are much larger than the violin. Tardigrades typically measure between 50 and 1,200 microns. Why did they choose to create the violin? It is supposedly an ode to the phrase - “Can you hear the world’s smallest violin playing just for you?” Violin showcases nanoscale technology at the university A lot of research and sophisticated technology went into creating the violin. The university has a new nanolithography system, a platform that can work at the nanoscale. Scientists wanted to show off its calibre, and so decided to create the tiny violin. “Though creating the world’s smallest violin may seem like fun and games, a lot of what we’ve learned in the process has actually laid the groundwork for the research we’re now undertaking,” Professor Kelly Morrison, head of the Physics Department, said. The scientists at the university used a machine called the NanoFrazor to make the violin. A process called thermal scanning probe lithography was used, in which a heated tip, as sharp as a needle "writes" detailed designs at the nanoscale. Two layers of a gel-like material, called a resist, are coated on a chip, after which a violin design is etched into the top layer using the NanoFrazor. Once set, the exposed areas are dissolved, and a violin-shaped cavity remains. "Platinum is then applied in a thin coat, and the remaining material is rinsed away to reveal the miniature instrument." Gloveboxes and sealed chambers are used to avoid any kind of contamination, while robotic arms are used to move the chip. The team created several tiny violins before making the final version that took months to perfect. Professor Morrison says that the method can be used to "develop new technologies." “Once we understand how materials behave, we can start applying that knowledge to develop new technologies. But first, we need to understand the fundamental science and this system enables us to do just that.”

Scientists have created a violin that is smaller than a single strand of human hair, almost the same size as a speck of dust. You cannot play it, but it is still a standing proof of how much technology has evolved.

Scientists have created a violin the size of a speck of dust. Can you play it?

Indian Air Force sends wishes to Shubhanshu Shukla ahead of Axiom-4 mission IAF calls it a new chapter in India’s space journey.&nbsp;As Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla prepares to go to the International Space Station (ISS) aboard the Axiom-4 (Ax-4) mission, the Indian Air Force (IAF) has extended its support and best wishes. The IAF called his participation a proud moment that adds a “new chapter to the Indian space odyssey”.&nbsp;The mission, operated by Axiom Space in collaboration with SpaceX, is scheduled to launch on 11 June 2025 at 5:30 PM IST from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The launch was initially planned for 10 June but had to be postponed due to bad weather in the ascent corridor.&nbsp;In a post on X, the IAF stated:“As Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla prepares to embark on Axiom-4 space mission tomorrow, the Chief of the Air Staff and all Air Warriors of IAF wish him and the entire crew of Axiom-4 all the best for a safe and successful trip to the International Space Station.”&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">As Group Captain Shubahanshu Shukla prepares to embark on Axiom-4 space mission tomorrow, Chief of the Air Staff and all Air Warriors of IAF wish him and the entire crew of Axiom-4 all the best for a safe and successful trip to the International Space Station. This will add a new… <a href="https://t.co/t91lFn6gz5">pic.twitter.com/t91lFn6gz5</a>&mdash; Indian Air Force (@IAF_MCC) <a href="https://twitter.com/IAF_MCC/status/1932256145248309481?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 10, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>All systems are in place for June 11 liftoff</h2>The Falcon 9 rocket and Crew Dragon spacecraft, which will carry the four-member crew, have reached Launch Complex 39A. On Sunday, SpaceX confirmed it had successfully completed the static fire test for the rocket. Engineers are now reviewing data and monitoring weather conditions before the final launch decision.The Ax-4 crew includes veteran astronaut Peggy Whitson (USA), Sławosz Uznański (Poland), Tibor Kapu (Hungary), and Shubhanshu Shukla (India). All four crew members and SpaceX teams have completed a full dress rehearsal for launch operations.&nbsp;<h2>ISRO sends a team to support India’s Gaganyatri</h2>ISRO Chairman V Narayanan, who is already in the United States, confirmed the launch delay and said a team from India’s Human Space Flight Centre (HSFC) is present. This team includes flight surgeons working under the Gaganyaan programme, highlighting the importance of this collaboration for India’s future in space.&nbsp;Both ISRO and Axiom Space confirmed the delay is due to bad weather, and all systems remain ready for liftoff on June 11.

Indian Air Force wishes Shubhanshu Shukla ahead of his Axim 4 mission to ISS. The launch, now set for June 11, includes a global crew. ISRO also supports the mission, marking a key step in India’s space journey.

Indian Air Force sends wishes to Shubhanshu Shukla ahead of Axiom-4 mission IAF calls it a new chapter in India’s space journey. As Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla prepares to go to the International Space Station (ISS) aboard the Axiom-4 (Ax-4) mission, the Indian Air Force (IAF) has extended its support and best wishes. The IAF called his participation a proud moment that adds a “new chapter to the Indian space odyssey”. The mission, operated by Axiom Space in collaboration with SpaceX, is scheduled to launch on 11 June 2025 at 5:30 PM IST from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The launch was initially planned for 10 June but had to be postponed due to bad weather in the ascent corridor. In a post on X, the IAF stated: “As Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla prepares to embark on Axiom-4 space mission tomorrow, the Chief of the Air Staff and all Air Warriors of IAF wish him and the entire crew of Axiom-4 all the best for a safe and successful trip to the International Space Station.”

Indian Air Force wishes Shubhanshu Shukla ahead of his Axim-4 mission to ISS. The launch, now set for June 11, includes a global crew. ISRO also supports the mission, marking a key step in India’s space journey.

Indian Air Force wishes Shubhanshu Shukla as Axim-4 mission launch is set for June 11

The mysterious sphere that was recovered in Colombia in March this year has thrown some strange surprises. A team of scientists carried out microscopic scans on the object, also known as the Buga Sphere, and found a maze of fibre-optic wires. They think the presence of these wires means that the sphere can send and receive signals.The UFO was seen zig-zagging over Buga on March 2, in a way that doesn't fit anything seen in a conventional aircraft. Scientists took possession of the object and have been studying it since. Researchers from the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM) have found some weird things in the sphere.The team says the sphere has a central nucleus, being referred to as "a chip.' It has three layers of metal-like material and 18 microspheres surrounding the nucleus.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/warmongers-will-hide-in-bunkers-as-the-world-burns-from-a-nuclear-holocaust-tulsi-gabbard-issues-chilling-warning-1749613126713">Warmongers will hide in 'bunkers' as the world burns from a 'nuclear holocaust', Tulsi Gabbard issues chilling warning</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;They further noted that the place where the Buga sphere fell mysteriously dried up, killing all the grass and soil around it. Trying to explain what could have happened, scientists do not think any kind of radiation was involved. Instead, they think "an invisible energy" sucked all the water from the grass and soil, Mail Online reported. Strangely, nothing has grown back since then in the area.Rodolfo Garrido, an engineer with the UNAM team, says it seems like a strong, decaying ionised field from the Buga sphere might have had that effect on the grass.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/another-lost-city-detected-under-egyptian-pyramid-by-scientists-bu-it-says-expert-1749609642375">Another lost city detected under Egyptian pyramid by scientists who found Khafre cylinders. 'Bu****it', says expert</a>&nbsp;Speaking to Maussan Televisión, he added that the object has become five times heavier since March. He said that its weight changed to 16, 20, and then 22 pounds. However, it has largely remained as it is with no visible changes.&nbsp;<h2>“Futuristic gravitational forces” help it become lighter to fly</h2>&nbsp;One of the researchers believes that the sphere likely uses "futuristic gravitational forces" to shed weight to help it fly.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/buga-sphere-ufo-colombia-aliens-warning-message-1748317396999">Real life Arrival? Is Buga sphere a warning sign from aliens? Mystery grows around UFO</a>&nbsp;The weight change and the discovery of the wires, nucleus, the material and the microspheres have led the team to conclude that the Buga sphere can manipulate gravity and is an advanced probe. That's not all.. The researchers think the sphere generates its own electromagnetic field, which helps it to get off the ground.&nbsp;<h2>Ominous message for humanity</h2>&nbsp;Earlier, some people claimed that the orb had been sent to Earth by a species more advanced than humans. Analysts claimed that it carried a warning message for humans - "The origin of birth through union and energy in the cycle of transformation, the meeting point of unity, expansion and awareness – individual consciousness."However, &nbsp;Dr Julia Mossbridge, a cognitive neuroscientist and a researcher of unidentified aerial phenomena (UAP), does not think the sphere was made by aliens. &nbsp;"The sphere itself seems kind of like an art project," something she thinks only humans can do.

Buga sphere: The team says the sphere has a central nucleus, being referred to as “a chip.” It has three layers of metal-like material and 18 microspheres surrounding the nucleus.

The mysterious sphere that was recovered in Colombia in March this year has thrown some strange surprises. A team of scientists carried out microscopic scans on the object, also known as the Buga Sphere, and found a maze of fibre-optic wires. They think the presence of these wires means that the sphere can send and receive signals. The UFO was seen zig-zagging over Buga on March 2, in a way that doesn't fit anything seen in a conventional aircraft. Scientists took possession of the object and have been studying it since. Researchers from the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM) have found some weird things in the sphere. The team says the sphere has a central nucleus, being referred to as "a chip.' It has three layers of metal-like material and 18 microspheres surrounding the nucleus. Also Read: Warmongers will hide in 'bunkers' as the world burns from a 'nuclear holocaust', Tulsi Gabbard issues chilling warning They further noted that the place where the Buga sphere fell mysteriously dried up, killing all the grass and soil around it. Trying to explain what could have happened, scientists do not think any kind of radiation was involved. Instead, they think "an invisible energy" sucked all the water from the grass and soil, Mail Online reported. Strangely, nothing has grown back since then in the area. Rodolfo Garrido, an engineer with the UNAM team, says it seems like a strong, decaying ionised field from the Buga sphere might have had that effect on the grass. Also Read: Another lost city detected under Egyptian pyramid by scientists who found Khafre cylinders. 'Bu****it', says expert Speaking to Maussan Televisión, he added that the object has become five times heavier since March. He said that its weight changed to 16, 20, and then 22 pounds. However, it has largely remained as it is with no visible changes. “Futuristic gravitational forces” help it become lighter to fly One of the researchers believes that the sphere likely uses "futuristic gravitational forces" to shed weight to help it fly. Also Read: Real life Arrival? Is Buga sphere a warning sign from aliens? Mystery grows around UFO The weight change and the discovery of the wires, nucleus, the material and the microspheres have led the team to conclude that the Buga sphere can manipulate gravity and is an advanced probe. That's not all.. The researchers think the sphere generates its own electromagnetic field, which helps it to get off the ground. Ominous message for humanity Earlier, some people claimed that the orb had been sent to Earth by a species more advanced than humans. Analysts claimed that it carried a warning message for humans - "The origin of birth through union and energy in the cycle of transformation, the meeting point of unity, expansion and awareness – individual consciousness." However, Dr Julia Mossbridge, a cognitive neuroscientist and a researcher of unidentified aerial phenomena (UAP), does not think the sphere was made by aliens. "The sphere itself seems kind of like an art project," something she thinks only humans can do.

Buga sphere: The team says the sphere has a central nucleus, being referred to as “a chip.” It has three layers of metal-like material and 18 microspheres surrounding the nucleus.

UFO Buga sphere has wires; 'invisible energy' dried up grass around it, SHOCKING claims by Mexican scientists

On Monday (June 9), during the final preparations for the Axiom-4 spaceflight mission and the static test firing of the Falcon 9 rocket, SpaceX officials said they found a liquid oxygen leak in the rocket booster, and in the steering systems of the 5th engine in the rocket. These observations were shared by William Gerstenmaier, Vice President, Build and Flight reliability, SpaceX, during a virtual press conference conducted by Axiom Space.&nbsp;&nbsp;Due to weather-related reasons as well, the launch that was originally scheduled for 10th June, Tuesday, has been pushed to 11th June, Wednesday.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/isro-shubhanshu-shukla-axiom-4-space-mission-ticket-price-cost-1749537739392">India paid millions of dollars to get Shubhanshu Shukla a seat on Axiom-4 space mission. A whopping...</a>&nbsp;"We found a Liquid Oxygen(LOX) leak that we previously saw on this booster, during entry on its last mission," Gerstenmaier said. The Falcon 9 rocket uses Rocket-grade Kerosene fuel and super-cooled liquid oxygen as the oxidizer. The mix of fuel and oxidizer have to burn to generate thrust for a rocket's liftoff and flight. SpaceX reuses its rocket boosters, which is why they say that they previously observed the same issue in this booster.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Axiom-4 mission delay &quot;During the static fire of Falcon 9 rocket, we found a Liquid Oxygen leak, that was previously seen on this booster. It wasn&#39;t repaired/we didn&#39;t find a leak. Installing a purge to mitigate the leak if it still continues&quot; William Gerstenmaier VP SpaceX <a href="https://t.co/Pgj71B8S3V">pic.twitter.com/Pgj71B8S3V</a>&mdash; Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1932337276396433427?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 10, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

"We discovered we had not fully repaired the booster during refurbishment, or we did not find a leak and did not get it corrected. We are continuing to troubleshoot that at the launchpad. Will have that completed today (Monday)," Gerstenmaier added. He added that they have readied a solution (installing a purge) that will mitigate the leak if it still continues on launch day. We will be fully ready to go fly, he expressed.&nbsp;Further, he added that SpaceX teams discovered a problem with the Thrust Vector Control(TVC) systems in the rocket's 5th engine. The first stage(booster) of the Falcon 9 rocket has nine engines and the problem was noted in the 5th engine. Thrust Vector Control is the method used to steer a rocket by changing the direction of the thrust produced by its engines. It is used to manoeuvre the rocket during launch and flight. In SpaceX's case, TVC is used even to land the rocket booster for re-use. "The change of components have already been done. We will be ready to support launch as early as tomorrow(Tuesday)", he said.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Axiom-4 mission delay &quot;We also discovered an engine 5 Thrust Vector Control problem in the Falcon 9 rocket. We&#39;ve changed the associated components. Ready to support launch as early as tomorrow&quot; William Gerstenmaier, VP, SpaceX <a href="https://t.co/cjRkNjO83n">pic.twitter.com/cjRkNjO83n</a>&mdash; Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1932338308870525021?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 10, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

"SpaceX is targeting Wednesday, June 11 for Falcon 9’s launch of Axiom Space’s Axiom Mission 4 to the International Space Station from Launch Complex 39A (LC-39A) at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Launch is targeted for 8:00 a.m. ET, with a backup opportunity available on Thursday, June 12 at 7:37 a.m. ET," the firm announced. It was said that the postponement was due to high winds in the flight path of the rocket.<h2>About Axiom-4 Human Spaceflight mission</h2>Axiom-4 will carry a crew of four astronauts to the International Space Station, where they would stay for two weeks and perform 60 experiments. The astronauts would be flying on the SpaceX Falcon9 rocket and the Crew Dragon capsule. Peggy Whitson, veteran NASA astronaut and director of human spaceflight at Axiom Space, will command the Axiom-4 mission, while ISRO (Indian Space Research Organization) astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla will serve as pilot or second-in-command. The two mission specialists are ESA (European Space Agency) project astronaut Sławosz Uznański-Wiśniewski of Poland and Tibor Kapu of Hungary.&nbsp;This mission will facilitate the return to human spaceflight for India, Poland, and Hungary, given that each nation’s first and only government-sponsored spaceflight had taken place more than 40 years ago. The Ax-4 crew members will represent their nations in Low Earth Orbit and perform scientific experiments and demonstrations that are of high national importance.&nbsp;Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla will be the first Indian to fly to the International Space Station, and the second Indian to fly to space after Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma, who flew on a Soviet Mission in 1984. The Indian Government has paid almost $64mn(Rs.550cr) for Shukla's training and spaceflight as part of Axiom-4.&nbsp;As he circles the earth, Shukla will also be performing experiments in STEM(Science, Tech, Engineering, Math), and these will be made available as recorded educational videos, as part of the Axiom-4 mission outreach activity. He will also be having a video interaction with students from India. "Our astronaut will be directly interacting with the student community... two such events we are planning across the country," Sudeesh Balan, Project Director at ISRO had told WION's Sidharth.M.P.&nbsp;In a pre-launch media briefing, Indian Astronaut Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla had said that he is excited about all aspects of the Axiom-4 spaceflight. "As I stand at the threshold of a 14-day mission to the Space Station, I reflect on the path that has brought me here. From diverse systems to advanced platforms across continents and cultures, this training has been intense and deeply rewarding. Behind every minute in space likes months, years of preparation," he remarked. For the fortnight-long mission, I carry with me not just instruments and equipment, but the hopes and dreams of a billion hearts, he added.&nbsp;Shukla will be also carrying a special gift as a tribute to India's first astronaut Rakesh Sharma. "I will be carrying something for him... I haven't revealed it to him. I will hand it over to him personally," he added.&nbsp;&nbsp;Both Shukla and Sharma(now retired) are Indian Air Force test pilots. Interestingly, Shukla was born in the year 1984, when Sharma became the first and only Indian to fly to space.&nbsp;

On Monday (June 9), during the final preparations for the Axiom-4 spaceflight mission and the static test firing of the Falcon 9 rocket, SpaceX officials said they found a liquid oxygen leak in the rocket booster, and in the steering systems of the 5th engine in the rocket. 

On Monday (June 9), during the final preparations for the Axiom-4 spaceflight mission and the static test firing of the Falcon 9 rocket, SpaceX officials said they found a liquid oxygen leak in the rocket booster, and in the steering systems of the 5th engine in the rocket. These observations were shared by William Gerstenmaier, Vice President, Build and Flight reliability, SpaceX, during a virtual press conference conducted by Axiom Space. Due to weather-related reasons as well, the launch that was originally scheduled for 10th June, Tuesday, has been pushed to 11th June, Wednesday. Also read: India paid millions of dollars to get Shubhanshu Shukla a seat on Axiom-4 space mission. A whopping... "We found a Liquid Oxygen(LOX) leak that we previously saw on this booster, during entry on its last mission," Gerstenmaier said. The Falcon 9 rocket uses Rocket-grade Kerosene fuel and super-cooled liquid oxygen as the oxidizer. The mix of fuel and oxidizer have to burn to generate thrust for a rocket's liftoff and flight. SpaceX reuses its rocket boosters, which is why they say that they previously observed the same issue in this booster.

On Monday (June 9), during the final preparations for the Axiom-4 spaceflight mission and the static test firing of the Falcon 9 rocket, SpaceX officials said they found a liquid oxygen leak in the rocket booster, and in the steering systems of the 5th engine in the rocket.&nbsp;

Axiom-4 launch delay: SpaceX found engine trouble, leak in Falcon9 rocket

Indian pilot and astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla's space mission carries a hefty price tag. According to a report by Business Insider, the country paid space company Axiom a whopping $70 million for a seat to the International Space Station. That is nearly Rs 599 crore. The Ax-4 mission has been delayed due to bad weather and will now be launched on June 11 at 5:30 pm IST.The report states that the private astronaut seat on the mission has a price. The other three individuals who earlier paid Axiom for their previous missions are Larry Connor, a real estate investor; Mark Pathy, a Canadian investor; and Eytan Stibbe, a former Israeli fighter pilot. However, Shubhanshu did not pay from his pocket, and his trip has been financed by ISRO.Others joining Shukla on the trip are Peggy Whitson, a former NASA astronaut, &nbsp;mission specialist Sławosz Uznański-Wiśniewski of Poland, and mission specialist Tibor Kapu of Hungary.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/isro-s-shubhanshu-shukla-ax-4-launch-delayed-to-wednesday-due-to-bad-weather-in-florida-1749481448874">SpaceX delays Axiom-4 carrying Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla to June 11: Here's why</a>&nbsp;<h2>Axiom ticket cost for space mission&nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;The cost of $70 million per seat on an Axiom mission is far more than what other space agencies, such as Blue Origin and Virgin Galactic, charge. A person taking a trip to space with Blue Origin needs to pay $150,000 as a refundable deposit. A ticket was auctioned off for $28 million. Meanwhile, Virgin Galactic tickets haven't been put on sale yet, but were earlier priced at $600,000.The stark difference in cost is primarily because of the duration of the journey and the destination. While Blue Origin's recent trip lasted only 11 minutes, those on Axiom-4 will actually go to the International Space Station and spend two weeks there.&nbsp;<h2>Axiom ticket price covers a year-long experience</h2>&nbsp;CEO Tejpaul Bhatia told Business Insider that the cost is not only for a seat, but includes a yearlong program to become a trained astronaut. Axiom Space's private astronauts are trained as per NASA standards, however, not as rigorously as NASA astronauts. The rockets are not manufactured by Axiom Space, but it enters into contracts with companies like SpaceX.Shukla's trip marks India's return to space in 41 years. 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.Bhatia said that the private astronaut seat is open to countries, space agencies, researchers, organisations, and individuals.&nbsp;

Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla seat on the Axiom 4 space mission cost India a large amount of money. Here is how much the country paid to get an Indian back to space.

Indian pilot and astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla's space mission carries a hefty price tag. According to a report by Business Insider, the country paid space company Axiom a whopping $70 million for a seat to the International Space Station. That is nearly Rs 599 crore. The Ax-4 mission has been delayed due to bad weather and will now be launched on June 11 at 5:30 pm IST. The report states that the private astronaut seat on the mission has a price. The other three individuals who earlier paid Axiom for their previous missions are Larry Connor, a real estate investor; Mark Pathy, a Canadian investor; and Eytan Stibbe, a former Israeli fighter pilot. However, Shubhanshu did not pay from his pocket, and his trip has been financed by ISRO. Others joining Shukla on the trip are Peggy Whitson, a former NASA astronaut, mission specialist Sławosz Uznański-Wiśniewski of Poland, and mission specialist Tibor Kapu of Hungary. Also Read: SpaceX delays Axiom-4 carrying Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla to June 11: Here's why Axiom ticket cost for space mission The cost of $70 million per seat on an Axiom mission is far more than what other space agencies, such as Blue Origin and Virgin Galactic, charge. A person taking a trip to space with Blue Origin needs to pay $150,000 as a refundable deposit. A ticket was auctioned off for $28 million. Meanwhile, Virgin Galactic tickets haven't been put on sale yet, but were earlier priced at $600,000. The stark difference in cost is primarily because of the duration of the journey and the destination. While Blue Origin's recent trip lasted only 11 minutes, those on Axiom-4 will actually go to the International Space Station and spend two weeks there. Axiom ticket price covers a year-long experience CEO Tejpaul Bhatia told Business Insider that the cost is not only for a seat, but includes a yearlong program to become a trained astronaut. Axiom Space's private astronauts are trained as per NASA standards, however, not as rigorously as NASA astronauts. The rockets are not manufactured by Axiom Space, but it enters into contracts with companies like SpaceX. Shukla's trip marks India's return to space in 41 years. 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. Bhatia said that the private astronaut seat is open to countries, space agencies, researchers, organisations, and individuals.

Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla's seat on the Axiom-4 space mission cost India a large amount of money. Here is how much the country paid to get an Indian back to space.

India paid millions of dollars to get Shubhanshu Shukla a seat on Axiom-4 space mission. A whopping...

Starlink satellites in orbit are becoming a hurdle to space exploration, reports suggest. SpaceX has thousands of satellites hovering above the planet, and they are reportedly leaking radio waves that are preventing telescopes from peering into the early universe, New Scientist reported.These telescopes are extremely sensitive and detect faint signals from deep space from the time the first stars formed.A team of scientists in Australia looked at 2,000 Starlink satellites and found that the signals emitted by them could affect up to a third of the data at some frequencies collected by a telescope that is under construction. They also discovered that the Starlink satellites are using two frequency ranges that are protected for radio astronomy.The findings were made using a prototype telescope from the Square Kilometre Array-Low observatory (SKA-Low) in Australia. It comprises 100,000 small, linked telescopes and is being built to study the ancient universe.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-s-starlink-gets-india-license-report-1749208343196">Elon Musk's Starlink gets India license: Report</a>&nbsp;Steven Tingay at Curtin University in Australia and his colleagues tracked the signals from nearly 2,000 Starlink satellites using the prototype. They found that Starlink satellites won't let astronomers gather accurate and complete data on the early universe.&nbsp;<h2>Starlink is blocking radio signals from deep space&nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;The SKA-Low telescope will aim to pick up radio signals from neutral hydrogen clouds that hung around in the universe when the first stars began to form. However, they are extremely faint, and it might not be possible to detect them if Starlink satellites continue to leak these radio waves into space, since the latter are 10,000 times stronger than the signals coming from the ancient universe.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/black-holes-wormholes-einstein-rosen-bridge-are-real-in-universe-1749291674384">Black holes or wormholes? Scientists find more proof that Einstein-Rosen bridge are real</a>&nbsp;Further, the Starlink satellites are emitting signals at two frequency ranges that have been reserved for radio astronomy by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU). However, this seems to be unintentional.“If you look at the signal strength produced by these unintended emissions, it’s not unusual for them to be comparable to the brightest natural radio sources in the sky,” says Tingay.&nbsp;<h2>Studying ancient galaxies is becoming a problem&nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;Concerns about SpaceX Starlink satellites posing a problem in the study of ancient galaxies have been raised before. Elon Musk's company has tried to mitigate it by switching off the internet-transmitting beams when they fly over key telescopes. However, this hasn't proved helpful.Starlink is currently available in over 100 countries, including the US, Canada, Australia, Japan, Germany, Mongolia and others. Bhutan is the latest country to join the list. Starlink will start operations in India in the next two months. According to reports, a satellite dish-essential hardware, will be sold for an estimated Rs 33,000. The monthly unlimited data plan will be offered at Rs 3,000. &nbsp;

Starlink satellites are becoming a problem for scientists studying deep space as telescopes are unable to pick up faint radio signals coming from deep space, from the time the first stars were born.

Starlink satellites in orbit are becoming a hurdle to space exploration, reports suggest. SpaceX has thousands of satellites hovering above the planet, and they are reportedly leaking radio waves that are preventing telescopes from peering into the early universe, New Scientist reported. These telescopes are extremely sensitive and detect faint signals from deep space from the time the first stars formed. A team of scientists in Australia looked at 2,000 Starlink satellites and found that the signals emitted by them could affect up to a third of the data at some frequencies collected by a telescope that is under construction. They also discovered that the Starlink satellites are using two frequency ranges that are protected for radio astronomy. The findings were made using a prototype telescope from the Square Kilometre Array-Low observatory (SKA-Low) in Australia. It comprises 100,000 small, linked telescopes and is being built to study the ancient universe. Also Read: Elon Musk's Starlink gets India license: Report Steven Tingay at Curtin University in Australia and his colleagues tracked the signals from nearly 2,000 Starlink satellites using the prototype. They found that Starlink satellites won't let astronomers gather accurate and complete data on the early universe. Starlink is blocking radio signals from deep space The SKA-Low telescope will aim to pick up radio signals from neutral hydrogen clouds that hung around in the universe when the first stars began to form. However, they are extremely faint, and it might not be possible to detect them if Starlink satellites continue to leak these radio waves into space, since the latter are 10,000 times stronger than the signals coming from the ancient universe. Also Read: Black holes or wormholes? Scientists find more proof that Einstein-Rosen bridge are real Further, the Starlink satellites are emitting signals at two frequency ranges that have been reserved for radio astronomy by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU). However, this seems to be unintentional. “If you look at the signal strength produced by these unintended emissions, it’s not unusual for them to be comparable to the brightest natural radio sources in the sky,” says Tingay. Studying ancient galaxies is becoming a problem Concerns about SpaceX Starlink satellites posing a problem in the study of ancient galaxies have been raised before. Elon Musk's company has tried to mitigate it by switching off the internet-transmitting beams when they fly over key telescopes. However, this hasn't proved helpful. Starlink is currently available in over 100 countries, including the US, Canada, Australia, Japan, Germany, Mongolia and others. Bhutan is the latest country to join the list. Starlink will start operations in India in the next two months. According to reports, a satellite dish-essential hardware, will be sold for an estimated Rs 33,000. The monthly unlimited data plan will be offered at Rs 3,000.

Starlink satellites are becoming a problem for scientists studying deep space, as telescopes are unable to pick up faint radio signals coming from deep space, from the time the first stars were born.

10,000 times stronger: A leak in Starlink satellites is blocking signals from first stars of the universe

June 10, 2025, was supposed to be historic for India. Our astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla was set to blast off to space aboard the Axiom-4 mission, continuing the proud legacy of Rakesh Sharma and Kalpana Chawla. But then came the announcement that no space fan wants to hear: "Launch delayed due to weather."&nbsp;Just 24 hours. That's all we have to wait. But in the world of space exploration, even Mother Nature gets the final say.&nbsp;India's Big Space Moment&nbsp;The Axiom-4 (Ax-4) mission isn't just another trip to space—it's a statement. This private crewed mission to the International Space Station, run by Axiom Space, NASA, and SpaceX, will carry four astronauts for a two-week stay. Among them is our very own Shubhanshu Shukla, an Indian Air Force pilot who's about to make history.For India, this is huge. After decades of watching other nations send their people to space regularly, we're finally getting our moment in the spotlight. Shukla will conduct critical experiments, test new technologies, and show the world that India belongs among the space superpowers.&nbsp;The mission was originally set to launch on June 10 from Kennedy Space Center in Florida. But nature had other plans.&nbsp;Why Weather Isn't Just Rain and Wind in Space&nbsp;"Unfavorable weather conditions"—that's the official reason for pushing the launch to June 11 at 5:30 PM IST. Sounds simple, right? But when you're shooting a rocket carrying human lives into space, weather becomes deadly serious.&nbsp;This isn't like postponing a cricket match because of drizzle. In space launches, weather can mean the difference between success and disaster. Here's why the delay was absolutely necessary:&nbsp;Rain Threatens Everything: NASA's weather team reported a 45% chance of rain at Kennedy Space Center. Rain doesn't just make things wet—it reduces visibility for ground crews, can damage sensitive rocket equipment, and throws off the precisely timed launch sequence. When you're dealing with rocket fuel and electronics worth billions, you don't take chances with water.&nbsp;Winds Can Kill: Strong winds along the Falcon 9's flight path aren't just uncomfortable—they're dangerous. Even small gusts can push the rocket off course as it climbs through the atmosphere. Imagine trying to thread a needle while someone's shaking your hand. That's what launching in windy conditions feels like.&nbsp;Lightning Strikes Fear: Thunderstorms bring lightning, and lightning can fry a rocket's electronics in seconds. One strike could turn this historic mission into a catastrophe before it even begins. The safety systems would shut everything down, but the damage could be permanent.&nbsp;Structural Stress: High-altitude winds put enormous stress on the rocket's body. These machines are built tough, but they have limits. Push beyond those limits, and you risk mechanical failure when you're already miles above Earth with no way back down safely.&nbsp;Why Patience Pays Off&nbsp;Some might see this delay as disappointing. We waited so long for this moment—what's one more day? But that's exactly the right attitude to have.&nbsp;Space exploration demands perfection. Every bolt, every wire, every second is planned down to the smallest detail. But the weather? That's the one thing no amount of planning can control. And when you're carrying precious cargo like Shubhanshu Shukla and his fellow astronauts, you don't gamble with their lives.&nbsp;This delay shows something important: responsibility over rush. The teams behind Ax-4 could have pushed ahead, hoping for the best. Instead, they chose the harder path—waiting for conditions that give the mission its best shot at success.&nbsp;What's at Stake&nbsp;This mission means everything for India's space ambitions. Shukla will spend two weeks on the ISS conducting experiments that could benefit all of humanity. From studying how the human body adapts to zero gravity to testing new technologies that might help future Mars missions, his work will have lasting impact.&nbsp;Every experiment he performs, every photo he takes, every moment he floats in that space station will inspire millions of young Indians to look up at the stars and think: "That could be me someday."&nbsp;The Bigger Picture&nbsp;As we wait for June 11, let's remember what this delay really represents. Space exploration has always been about pushing boundaries, but it's also about knowing when to step back and wait for the right moment.&nbsp;Weather delays aren't failures—they're wisdom in action. They show that even in our age of incredible technology, we still respect the forces of nature. They prove that human life is more valuable than schedules or PR moments.When that Falcon 9 finally roars to life tomorrow evening, carrying Shukla and India's dreams toward the stars, it will do so under clear skies and calm winds. And that's exactly how it should be.&nbsp;Because some dreams are worth waiting for. Some moments are too important to rush. And sometimes, the most powerful thing you can do is pause, look at the clouds, and say: "We'll try again tomorrow."&nbsp;India's time in space is coming. Twenty-four hours won't change that—it'll just make it safer.

Shubhanshu Shukla historic Axiom-4 flight: Weather writes the final chapter 


June 10, 2025, was supposed to be historic for India. Our astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla was set to blast off to space aboard the Axiom-4 mission, continuing the proud legacy of Rakesh Sharma and Kalpana Chawla. But then came the announcement that no space fan wants to hear: "Launch delayed due to weather." Just 24 hours. That's all we have to wait. But in the world of space exploration, even Mother Nature gets the final say. India's Big Space Moment The Axiom-4 (Ax-4) mission isn't just another trip to space—it's a statement. This private crewed mission to the International Space Station, run by Axiom Space, NASA, and SpaceX, will carry four astronauts for a two-week stay. Among them is our very own Shubhanshu Shukla, an Indian Air Force pilot who's about to make history. For India, this is huge. After decades of watching other nations send their people to space regularly, we're finally getting our moment in the spotlight. Shukla will conduct critical experiments, test new technologies, and show the world that India belongs among the space superpowers. The mission was originally set to launch on June 10 from Kennedy Space Center in Florida. But nature had other plans. Why Weather Isn't Just Rain and Wind in Space "Unfavorable weather conditions"—that's the official reason for pushing the launch to June 11 at 5:30 PM IST. Sounds simple, right? But when you're shooting a rocket carrying human lives into space, weather becomes deadly serious. This isn't like postponing a cricket match because of drizzle. In space launches, weather can mean the difference between success and disaster. Here's why the delay was absolutely necessary: Rain Threatens Everything: NASA's weather team reported a 45% chance of rain at Kennedy Space Center. Rain doesn't just make things wet—it reduces visibility for ground crews, can damage sensitive rocket equipment, and throws off the precisely timed launch sequence. When you're dealing with rocket fuel and electronics worth billions, you don't take chances with water. Winds Can Kill: Strong winds along the Falcon 9's flight path aren't just uncomfortable—they're dangerous. Even small gusts can push the rocket off course as it climbs through the atmosphere. Imagine trying to thread a needle while someone's shaking your hand. That's what launching in windy conditions feels like. Lightning Strikes Fear: Thunderstorms bring lightning, and lightning can fry a rocket's electronics in seconds. One strike could turn this historic mission into a catastrophe before it even begins. The safety systems would shut everything down, but the damage could be permanent. Structural Stress: High-altitude winds put enormous stress on the rocket's body. These machines are built tough, but they have limits. Push beyond those limits, and you risk mechanical failure when you're already miles above Earth with no way back down safely. Why Patience Pays Off Some might see this delay as disappointing. We waited so long for this moment—what's one more day? But that's exactly the right attitude to have. Space exploration demands perfection. Every bolt, every wire, every second is planned down to the smallest detail. But the weather? That's the one thing no amount of planning can control. And when you're carrying precious cargo like Shubhanshu Shukla and his fellow astronauts, you don't gamble with their lives. This delay shows something important: responsibility over rush. The teams behind Ax-4 could have pushed ahead, hoping for the best. Instead, they chose the harder path—waiting for conditions that give the mission its best shot at success. What's at Stake This mission means everything for India's space ambitions. Shukla will spend two weeks on the ISS conducting experiments that could benefit all of humanity. From studying how the human body adapts to zero gravity to testing new technologies that might help future Mars missions, his work will have lasting impact. Every experiment he performs, every photo he takes, every moment he floats in that space station will inspire millions of young Indians to look up at the stars and think: "That could be me someday." The Bigger Picture As we wait for June 11, let's remember what this delay really represents. Space exploration has always been about pushing boundaries, but it's also about knowing when to step back and wait for the right moment. Weather delays aren't failures—they're wisdom in action. They show that even in our age of incredible technology, we still respect the forces of nature. They prove that human life is more valuable than schedules or PR moments. When that Falcon 9 finally roars to life tomorrow evening, carrying Shukla and India's dreams toward the stars, it will do so under clear skies and calm winds. And that's exactly how it should be. Because some dreams are worth waiting for. Some moments are too important to rush. And sometimes, the most powerful thing you can do is pause, look at the clouds, and say: "We'll try again tomorrow." India's time in space is coming. Twenty-four hours won't change that—it'll just make it safer.

June 10, 2025, was supposed to be historic for India. Our astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla was set to blast off to space aboard the Axiom-4 mission, continuing the proud legacy of Rakesh Sharma and Kalpana Chawla.&nbsp;

Shubhanshu Shukla's historic Axiom-4 flight: Weather writes the final chapter

Originally scheduled for June 10, 2025, the launch will now take place on June 11 at 5:30 PM IST, due to unfavorable weather conditions at the launch site in Florida. The launch of the Axiom-4 mission to the International Space Station (ISS), which marks a historic moment for India, has been postponed by a day. According to a post by ISRO and SpaceX via a post on X. The mission will launch from Launch Complex 39A at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, with a backup opportunity available on 12 June at 7:37 AM ET. A live webcast will begin approximately two hours before liftoff.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Now targeting no earlier than Wednesday, June 11 for Falcon 9 to launch <a href="https://twitter.com/Axiom_Space?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Axiom_Space</a>&#39;s Ax-4 mission to the <a href="https://twitter.com/Space_Station?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Space_Station</a> due to high winds in the ascent corridor → <a href="https://t.co/LU1wyD8uZ0">https://t.co/LU1wyD8uZ0</a> <a href="https://t.co/7jygzWEUwD">pic.twitter.com/7jygzWEUwD</a>&mdash; SpaceX (@SpaceX) <a href="https://twitter.com/SpaceX/status/1932093079982649647?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 9, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Tropical storm activity behind the launch delay</h2> The delay is due to tropical weather disturbances in the Pacific. According to the National Hurricane Center, Tropical Storm Barbara is forecast to become the first hurricane of the 2025 season, while Tropical Storm Cosme is also expected to reach near-hurricane strength before weakening. These storms are developing west of Mexico, creating a potential risk for launch conditions along the Falcon 9 rocket’s ascent corridor.&nbsp;Meanwhile, two tropical waves are being tracked in the Atlantic, and a large dust plume from Africa is projected to reach Florida by 13 June, adding further unpredictability.&nbsp;<h2> Axiom Mission 4 Overview</h2>Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4) is the fourth private astronaut mission organised by Axiom Space to the International Space Station (ISS). The mission includes astronauts from India, the United States, Hungary, and Poland.&nbsp;From India, Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, an officer from the Indian Air Force, is flying as the pilot of the mission. His participation marks India’s return to human spaceflight after more than 40 years, since Rakesh Sharma’s space journey in 1984. ISRO has supported and recognised the mission as an important step in international collaboration.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Launch of Axiom-4 mission to International Space Station: Due to weather conditions, the launch of Axiom-4 mission for sending Indian Gaganyatri to International Space Station is postponed from 10th June 2025 to 11th June 2025. The targeted time of launch is 5:30 PM IST on 11th…&mdash; ISRO (@isro) <a href="https://twitter.com/isro/status/1932085212370075943?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 9, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Axiom Mission 4 crew to spend 14 days on ISS&nbsp;</h2>The Ax-4 crew will spend about 14 days aboard the ISS. During their stay, they will carry out more than 60 scientific experiments. These studies will focus on human health, material science, biological research, and Earth observation. The experiments aim to benefit people on Earth and improve future space missions.&nbsp;The mission also shows how governments and private companies can work together in space. Scientists and organisations from 31 countries are part of this mission through different experiments and research activities.&nbsp;Axiom Space is using missions like Ax-4 to prepare for building the first commercial space station, which is planned to launch in the next few years. The company believes that such missions help test technology, train astronauts, and build partnerships for long-term space exploration.&nbsp;For India, Ax-4 is also seen as a stepping stone towards the country’s own Gaganyaan human spaceflight programme, which aims to send Indian astronauts to space on an Indian rocket in the near future.&nbsp;(This is a developing story, stay tuned for more updates)

Axiom-4 mission to the ISS is delayed to 11 June 2025 due to weather. Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla to pilot the historic flight. Launch set for 5:30 PM IST from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center. 

Originally scheduled for June 10, 2025, the launch will now take place on June 11 at 5:30 PM IST, due to unfavorable weather conditions at the launch site in Florida. The launch of the Axiom-4 mission to the International Space Station (ISS), which marks a historic moment for India, has been postponed by a day. According to a post by ISRO and SpaceX via a post on X. The mission will launch from Launch Complex 39A at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, with a backup opportunity available on 12 June at 7:37 AM ET. A live webcast will begin approximately two hours before liftoff.

Axiom-4 mission to the ISS is delayed to 11 June 2025 due to weather. Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla to pilot the historic flight. Launch set for 5:30 PM IST from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center.&nbsp;

SpaceX delays Axiom-4 carrying Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla to June 11: Here's why

Indian astronaut completes launch rehearsal with Ax-4 crew ahead of June 10 spaceflightFinal checks complete for AX-4 missionIndian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla and the Ax-4 crew have completed their final launch rehearsal ahead of their space journey. confirmed by SpaceX in a recent post on X. The mission, organised by Axiom Space is scheduled to launch on 10 June from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida.&nbsp;Ahead of the liftoff, the team conducted a full-dress rehearsal with SpaceX, including a static fire test of the Falcon 9 rocket. The test is a key part of the pre-launch process and was completed without issue. Engineers are now reviewing data and tracking weather conditions to ensure safe and optimal launch conditions.&nbsp;This mission marks India’s return to human spaceflight after more than 40 years, since Rakesh Sharma’s historic mission in 1984.<h2>Shubhanshu Shukla to serve as pilot for AX-4</h2>Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla will serve as the pilot on the Ax-4 mission, joining a multinational crew. The team includes Peggy Whitson from the United States as commander, Tibor Kapu from Hungary, and Slawosz Uznanski-Wisniewski from Poland, both serving as mission specialists.&nbsp;The astronauts will travel aboard a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft, launched atop a Falcon 9 rocket. The Dragon capsule arrived at Launch Pad 39A’s hangar earlier this week in preparation for its first flight. The crew will head to the International Space Station (ISS) as part of Axiom’s fourth private astronaut mission. earlier launch was scheduled for 8 June but was moved to 10 June to allow additional time for systems checks. The Dragon spacecraft is expected to dock with the ISS on 11 June around 10 PM IST, following a journey of nearly 28 hours.<h2>International mission to conduct around 60 experiments</h2>Once aboard the ISS, the Ax-4 crew will carry out nearly 60 scientific experiments. These include studies on human health, Earth observation, and material sciences. The mission involves collaborations with institutions from 31 countries, making it one of the most globally diverse spaceflights.&nbsp;As India watches with pride, Shukla’s participation in the Ax-4 mission has reignited national interest in human spaceflight and reflects the country’s growing role in international space missions.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The Ax-4 crew and SpaceX teams completed a full rehearsal of launch day activities ahead of liftoff on Tuesday <a href="https://t.co/MEhuTdeuDf">pic.twitter.com/MEhuTdeuDf</a>&mdash; SpaceX (@SpaceX) <a href="https://twitter.com/SpaceX/status/1931762043956375804?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 8, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

ISRO’s Shubhanshu Shukla and Ax-4 crew completed the final rehearsal for the Ax-4 mission, launching June 10 from Kennedy Space Center. The multinational crew will fly aboard SpaceX’s Dragon to the ISS for around 60 scientific experiments, marking India’s return to human spaceflight after 40 years.

Indian astronaut completes launch rehearsal with Ax-4 crew ahead of June 10 spaceflight Final checks complete for AX-4 mission Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla and the Ax-4 crew have completed their final launch rehearsal ahead of their space journey. confirmed by SpaceX in a recent post on X. The mission, organised by Axiom Space is scheduled to launch on 10 June from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Ahead of the liftoff, the team conducted a full-dress rehearsal with SpaceX, including a static fire test of the Falcon 9 rocket. The test is a key part of the pre-launch process and was completed without issue. Engineers are now reviewing data and tracking weather conditions to ensure safe and optimal launch conditions. This mission marks India’s return to human spaceflight after more than 40 years, since Rakesh Sharma’s historic mission in 1984. Shubhanshu Shukla to serve as pilot for AX-4 Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla will serve as the pilot on the Ax-4 mission, joining a multinational crew. The team includes Peggy Whitson from the United States as commander, Tibor Kapu from Hungary, and Slawosz Uznanski-Wisniewski from Poland, both serving as mission specialists. The astronauts will travel aboard a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft, launched atop a Falcon 9 rocket. The Dragon capsule arrived at Launch Pad 39A’s hangar earlier this week in preparation for its first flight. The crew will head to the International Space Station (ISS) as part of Axiom’s fourth private astronaut mission. earlier launch was scheduled for 8 June but was moved to 10 June to allow additional time for systems checks. The Dragon spacecraft is expected to dock with the ISS on 11 June around 10 PM IST, following a journey of nearly 28 hours. International mission to conduct around 60 experiments Once aboard the ISS, the Ax-4 crew will carry out nearly 60 scientific experiments. These include studies on human health, Earth observation, and material sciences. The mission involves collaborations with institutions from 31 countries, making it one of the most globally diverse spaceflights. As India watches with pride, Shukla’s participation in the Ax-4 mission has reignited national interest in human spaceflight and reflects the country’s growing role in international space missions.

ISRO’s Shubhanshu Shukla and Ax-4 crew completed the final rehearsal for the Ax-4 mission, launching on June 10 from Kennedy Space Center. The crew will fly aboard SpaceX’s Dragon to the ISS for around 60 scientific experiments, marking India’s return to human spaceflight after 40 years.

ISRO’s Shubhanshu Shukla: Ax-4 crew completes final rehearsal ahead of June 10 SpaceX launch

‘We pray for his safe return’: Shubhanshu Shukla’s parents ahead of Ax-4 launchIndia’s return to human spaceflight after 40 yearsGroup Captain Shubhanshu Shukla is preparing to launch into space as part of Axiom Space’s Ax-4 mission, scheduled for 10 June at 8:22 am ET. In India, it will be 5:52 pm IST. The launch will take place from NASA’s Kennedy Space Centre in Florida aboard SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket.&nbsp;This mission marks India’s return to human spaceflight after 40 years, since Rakesh Sharma’s journey in 1984. Along with Shukla, astronauts from Poland and Hungary will also join the mission to the International Space Station (ISS). This will be the first time that any of these countries will send a government-backed astronaut to the ISS.&nbsp;According to reports from Axiom Space, the Ax-4 mission reflects growing international cooperation in low-Earth orbit and aims to promote global partnerships in space exploration. Both ISRO and the ISS have acknowledged the mission on their official platforms. SpaceX confirmed that launch day rehearsals have been successfully completed.<h2>Proud parents speak from Lucknow’s Triveni Nagar</h2>As the launch date approaches, emotions are high in Triveni Nagar, Lucknow, where Shukla’s family lives. In a report by ANI, his mother, Asha Shukla, said, “We are proud of him and pray for his safe return.” She added that he has always made the family proud, and they are hopeful for a successful mission.&nbsp;His father, Shambhu Dayal Shukla, echoed this pride, saying the entire neighbourhood and city are following the mission closely. “The nation is watching. Posters of him are everywhere,” he said. He also recalled a recent proud moment when the family attended a felicitation ceremony with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Thiruvananthapuram.<h2>Neighbours call Shukla a role model</h2>Shukla’s neighbours and community members see him as a local hero. Several locals told ANI that his achievement had brought recognition and honour to their area. Some residents called it the proudest moment for Triveni Nagar, saying it had inspired local children to dream big and aim for careers in science and space.&nbsp;The Ax-4 mission is expected to spend around 14 days aboard the ISS, during which the astronauts will carry out scientific, commercial, and educational activities.

Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla is set to launch on the Ax-4 mission with SpaceX on June 10, marking India’s return to human spaceflight after 40 years. His family in Lucknow proudly awaits his journey to the ISS.

‘We pray for his safe return’: Shubhanshu Shukla’s parents ahead of Ax-4 launch India’s return to human spaceflight after 40 years Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla is preparing to launch into space as part of Axiom Space’s Ax-4 mission, scheduled for 10 June at 8:22 am ET. In India, it will be 5:52 pm IST. The launch will take place from NASA’s Kennedy Space Centre in Florida aboard SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket. This mission marks India’s return to human spaceflight after 40 years, since Rakesh Sharma’s journey in 1984. Along with Shukla, astronauts from Poland and Hungary will also join the mission to the International Space Station (ISS). This will be the first time that any of these countries will send a government-backed astronaut to the ISS. According to reports from Axiom Space, the Ax-4 mission reflects growing international cooperation in low-Earth orbit and aims to promote global partnerships in space exploration. Both ISRO and the ISS have acknowledged the mission on their official platforms. SpaceX confirmed that launch day rehearsals have been successfully completed. Proud parents speak from Lucknow’s Triveni Nagar As the launch date approaches, emotions are high in Triveni Nagar, Lucknow, where Shukla’s family lives. In a report by ANI, his mother, Asha Shukla, said, “We are proud of him and pray for his safe return.” She added that he has always made the family proud, and they are hopeful for a successful mission. His father, Shambhu Dayal Shukla, echoed this pride, saying the entire neighbourhood and city are following the mission closely. “The nation is watching. Posters of him are everywhere,” he said. He also recalled a recent proud moment when the family attended a felicitation ceremony with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Thiruvananthapuram. Neighbours call Shukla a role model Shukla’s neighbours and community members see him as a local hero. Several locals told ANI that his achievement had brought recognition and honour to their area. Some residents called it the proudest moment for Triveni Nagar, saying it had inspired local children to dream big and aim for careers in science and space. The Ax-4 mission is expected to spend around 14 days aboard the ISS, during which the astronauts will carry out scientific, commercial, and educational activities.

Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla is set to launch on the Ax-4 mission with SpaceX on June 10, marking India’s return to human spaceflight after 40 years. His family in Lucknow proudly awaits his journey to the ISS.

ISRO’s Shubhanshu Shukla: Family in Lucknow proud and emotional ahead of June 10 SpaceX Ax-4 launch

Russia has recently developed and patented a new technology that enables the automatic launch of spacecraft from an orbital station, with integrated robotic systems for maintenance.&nbsp;The system has the capability of becoming the world’s first drone platform of its kind. It is expected to be tested on the Russian Orbital Station (ROS). The platform will also support future lunar exploration programmes.&nbsp;The development of the system was reportedly confirmed during a meeting between President Vladimir Putin and First Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov. Manturov described the platform as a patented solution by the Russian Federation.&nbsp;<h2>Testing at Russian Orbital Station</h2>&nbsp;The ROS is presently being developed. The first segment of the orbital station is the Scientific and Power Module (SPM) and it is scheduled for launch by the end of 2027. The station would be placed in a near-polar orbit. It is expected that, by 2030, Russia will transition to its own modular orbital station, thus phasing out reliance on the International Space Station (ISS), which is expected to be decommissioned around the same period.&nbsp;Additional modules, which includes the universal-node, gateway, and base modules are set for launch by 2030. These components, along with the SPM, will make the core structure of the station. Further, between 2031 and 2033, two more target modules will be docked as part of the second phase of the station’s construction. &nbsp;<h2>Lunar Applications and Strategic Shift</h2>&nbsp;Manturov further also stated that the new technology would be tested within the ROS framework and will be subsequently adapted for Russia's lunar exploration missions. This signals a shift in the country’s long-term space strategy, focusing on its independent capabilities as international collaborations in space, similar to those with NASA on the ISS, are expected to conclude with the station’s deorbiting by 2030.&nbsp;The ROS will also serve as a permanent infrastructure to support Russia’s space activities beyond the orbit of the Earth. The inclusion of robotic systems for maintenance for the platform aims to reduce the need for constant human presence, allowing for autonomous operations and potentially longer mission durations.

The system has the capability of becoming the world’s first drone platform of its kind. It is expected to be tested on the Russian Orbital Station (ROS). 

Russia has recently developed and patented a new technology that enables the automatic launch of spacecraft from an orbital station, with integrated robotic systems for maintenance. The system has the capability of becoming the world’s first drone platform of its kind. It is expected to be tested on the Russian Orbital Station (ROS). The platform will also support future lunar exploration programmes. The development of the system was reportedly confirmed during a meeting between President Vladimir Putin and First Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov. Manturov described the platform as a patented solution by the Russian Federation. Testing at Russian Orbital Station The ROS is presently being developed. The first segment of the orbital station is the Scientific and Power Module (SPM) and it is scheduled for launch by the end of 2027. The station would be placed in a near-polar orbit. It is expected that, by 2030, Russia will transition to its own modular orbital station, thus phasing out reliance on the International Space Station (ISS), which is expected to be decommissioned around the same period. Additional modules, which includes the universal-node, gateway, and base modules are set for launch by 2030. These components, along with the SPM, will make the core structure of the station. Further, between 2031 and 2033, two more target modules will be docked as part of the second phase of the station’s construction. Lunar Applications and Strategic Shift Manturov further also stated that the new technology would be tested within the ROS framework and will be subsequently adapted for Russia's lunar exploration missions. This signals a shift in the country’s long-term space strategy, focusing on its independent capabilities as international collaborations in space, similar to those with NASA on the ISS, are expected to conclude with the station’s deorbiting by 2030. The ROS will also serve as a permanent infrastructure to support Russia’s space activities beyond the orbit of the Earth. The inclusion of robotic systems for maintenance for the platform aims to reduce the need for constant human presence, allowing for autonomous operations and potentially longer mission durations.

The system has the capability of becoming the world’s first drone platform of its kind. It is expected to be tested on the Russian Orbital Station (ROS).&nbsp;

Robots in orbit: Russia patents tech to launch and maintain space drones — everything you need to know

First image of the Dragon spacecraft carrying Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla released. Dragon spacecraft to carry astronauts from four countriesThe first photo of the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft, which will carry Indian astronaut Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla to space, has been released. The spacecraft will transport four astronauts to the International Space Station (ISS) as part of the Axiom-4 mission, a private spaceflight operated by Axiom Space.&nbsp;This mission marks a major moment for India, coming nearly 40 years after Rakesh Sharma’s space journey on the Soviet Soyuz spacecraft in 1984. Group Captain Shukla is the designated pilot of the mission. The other three astronauts are from the United States, Poland, and Hungary.<h2>SpaceX Dragon</h2>This spacecraft, built by SpaceX, has reached its hangar at Launch Pad 39A at NASA’s Kennedy Space Centre in Florida and is preparing for launch. SpaceX posted an image of the vehicle on X, confirming that the Falcon 9 rocket will carry the Dragon spacecraft on its mission.<h2>Launch delayed by two days&nbsp;</h2>Earlier, the mission was set to lift off on 8 June 2025 at 6.41 pm IST, but it has now been rescheduled for 10 June. Though no official reason has been shared for the delay, sources have suggested it was to allow time for weather-related adjustments. &nbsp;The launch will take place from Launch Complex 39A, a historic pad used for earlier missions, including Apollo and Space Shuttle flights. The Falcon 9 rocket will launch the Dragon capsule into low Earth orbit, where it will dock with the ISS.<h2>Astronauts to stay 14 days on the ISS</h2>Shubhanshu Shukla will be joined by Slawosz Uznanski-Wisniewski from Poland, Tibor Kapu from Hungary, and Peggy Whitson, a former NASA astronaut who will lead the mission as commander.&nbsp;The astronauts will spend up to 14 days aboard the ISS, conducting scientific experiments, educational activities, and commercial tasks. Their journey is expected to strengthen international cooperation in space and support India’s space ambitions, especially the upcoming Gaganyaan mission.&nbsp;The Ax-4 mission represents a major leap for private space travel and marks India’s growing presence in international space partnerships.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Dragon arrives at the hangar at pad 39A in Florida ahead of its first flight. Falcon 9 is targeted to launch Dragon and <a href="https://twitter.com/Axiom_Space?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Axiom_Space</a>’s Ax-4 crew to the <a href="https://twitter.com/Space_Station?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Space_Station</a> next Tuesday, June 10 <a href="https://t.co/grW77raeD0">pic.twitter.com/grW77raeD0</a>&mdash; SpaceX (@SpaceX) <a href="https://twitter.com/SpaceX/status/1930680230198288599?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 5, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The first image of the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft carrying Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla on the Ax-4 mission has been released. Launching on 10 June 2025, the mission will take astronauts from four countries to the ISS for 14 days of research and global collaboration.

First image of the Dragon spacecraft carrying Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla released. Dragon spacecraft to carry astronauts from four countries The first photo of the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft, which will carry Indian astronaut Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla to space, has been released. The spacecraft will transport four astronauts to the International Space Station (ISS) as part of the Axiom-4 mission, a private spaceflight operated by Axiom Space. This mission marks a major moment for India, coming nearly 40 years after Rakesh Sharma’s space journey on the Soviet Soyuz spacecraft in 1984. Group Captain Shukla is the designated pilot of the mission. The other three astronauts are from the United States, Poland, and Hungary. SpaceX Dragon This spacecraft, built by SpaceX, has reached its hangar at Launch Pad 39A at NASA’s Kennedy Space Centre in Florida and is preparing for launch. SpaceX posted an image of the vehicle on X, confirming that the Falcon 9 rocket will carry the Dragon spacecraft on its mission. Launch delayed by two days Earlier, the mission was set to lift off on 8 June 2025 at 6.41 pm IST, but it has now been rescheduled for 10 June. Though no official reason has been shared for the delay, sources have suggested it was to allow time for weather-related adjustments. The launch will take place from Launch Complex 39A, a historic pad used for earlier missions, including Apollo and Space Shuttle flights. The Falcon 9 rocket will launch the Dragon capsule into low Earth orbit, where it will dock with the ISS. Astronauts to stay 14 days on the ISS Shubhanshu Shukla will be joined by Slawosz Uznanski-Wisniewski from Poland, Tibor Kapu from Hungary, and Peggy Whitson, a former NASA astronaut who will lead the mission as commander. The astronauts will spend up to 14 days aboard the ISS, conducting scientific experiments, educational activities, and commercial tasks. Their journey is expected to strengthen international cooperation in space and support India’s space ambitions, especially the upcoming Gaganyaan mission. The Ax-4 mission represents a major leap for private space travel and marks India’s growing presence in international space partnerships.

The first image of the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft carrying Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla on the Ax-4 mission has been released. Launching on 10 June 2025, the mission will take astronauts from four countries to the ISS for 14 days of research and global collaboration.

ISRO’s Shubhanshu Shukla: First image of SpaceX Dragon spacecraft released, set to carry Indian astronaut to space

Can black holes simply be wormholes? Scientists have long believed that the two cosmic objects might be the same, although the latter has never been observed in the universe. However, mathematical calculations show that wormholes might be lurking out there. In fact, black holes might be wormholes. Sci-fi movies have often explored the idea of wormholes, an object that is said to bend space time to allow crossing into another point in the universe faster than it would otherwise take.We have heard about the Einstein-Rosen bridge, a theoretical wormhole proposed in 1935. The two scientists, Einstein and Rosen, used it to address the singularity problem within black holes. It was a bridge between spacetime sheets. Science says it can exist, but one has never been located till now.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/greenland-megatsunamis-triggered-global-earthquake-in-2023-satellite-evidence-1749006266644">9 days, every 90 seconds: Greenland megatsunamis that triggered global earthquake were real</a>&nbsp;<h2>Static black holes are the same as wormholes?</h2>&nbsp;A study has explored the idea that black holes might be wormholes in disguise. Scientists studied the attributes of one particular type of black hole and noted that this is something that matches the description of a wormhole, Popular Mechanics reported.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/deep-space-radio-signals-cosmic-mystery-object-pulsar-magnetar-1748517706567">44 minutes apart, 2 minutes every time: Something from deep space is sending signals to Earth</a>&nbsp;“Exotic compact objects—either beyond General Relativity (GR) predictions or arising from unconventional GR assumptions—could theoretically exist, though they remain undetected,” the authors wrote in the paper uploaded to the preprint server arXiv. It will be published in the journal Physical Review D soon.“This elusiveness may be due to their ability to closely mimic the observational properties of black holes.”“We can say that a wormhole can effectively emulate the Schwarzschild black hole in general relativity in its fundamental mode and first overtone across the three distinct perturbation types considered individually,” the authors wrote.&nbsp;<h2>Static black holes</h2>&nbsp;Schwarzschild black holes, named after German physicist Karl Schwarzschild, have no rotation or electric field. Also known as quasi-normal modes (QNMs), they are also hypothetical. Researchers defined the properties of the area near the “throat” of a wormhole and analysed three different perturbation types (scalar, axial gravitational, and electromagnetic).&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/was-the-big-bang-actually-a-bounce-inside-a-cosmic-black-hole-heres-what-a-study-suggests-1749111144092">How did the universe begin? New study says the Big Bang was actually a bounce inside a black hole</a>&nbsp;This led them to conclude that a wormhole could "consistently replicate the QNMs" that are usually linked with static, or Schwarzschild, black holes.This is not the first time that scientists have called out blackholes for being a front for wormholes. However, the latest study adds more evidence to that belief, even though it might never be clear whether this is true, especially since humans have yet to locate this "bridge" in space.In 2021, a study theorised that supermassive black holes might merely be wormhole mouths. A year later, the static black hole proposal was put forward when a team at Sofia University in Bulgaria concluded that the disk around a traversable wormhole would emit light that might be “nearly identical” to that of a static black hole.

Black holes might just be wormholes, portals to the other side of the universe, a distant point that might not otherwise be accessible. Wormholes are also known as the Einstein-Rosen bridge.

Can black holes simply be wormholes? Scientists have long believed that the two cosmic objects might be the same, although the latter has never been observed in the universe. However, mathematical calculations show that wormholes might be lurking out there. In fact, black holes might be wormholes. Sci-fi movies have often explored the idea of wormholes, an object that is said to bend space time to allow crossing into another point in the universe faster than it would otherwise take. We have heard about the Einstein-Rosen bridge, a theoretical wormhole proposed in 1935. The two scientists, Einstein and Rosen, used it to address the singularity problem within black holes. It was a bridge between spacetime sheets. Science says it can exist, but one has never been located till now. Also Read: 9 days, every 90 seconds: Greenland megatsunamis that triggered global earthquake were real Static black holes are the same as wormholes? A study has explored the idea that black holes might be wormholes in disguise. Scientists studied the attributes of one particular type of black hole and noted that this is something that matches the description of a wormhole, Popular Mechanics reported. Also Read: 44 minutes apart, 2 minutes every time: Something from deep space is sending signals to Earth “Exotic compact objects—either beyond General Relativity (GR) predictions or arising from unconventional GR assumptions—could theoretically exist, though they remain undetected,” the authors wrote in the paper uploaded to the preprint server arXiv. It will be published in the journal Physical Review D soon. “This elusiveness may be due to their ability to closely mimic the observational properties of black holes.” “We can say that a wormhole can effectively emulate the Schwarzschild black hole in general relativity in its fundamental mode and first overtone across the three distinct perturbation types considered individually,” the authors wrote. Static black holes Schwarzschild black holes, named after German physicist Karl Schwarzschild, have no rotation or electric field. Also known as quasi-normal modes (QNMs), they are also hypothetical. Researchers defined the properties of the area near the “throat” of a wormhole and analysed three different perturbation types (scalar, axial gravitational, and electromagnetic). Also Read: How did the universe begin? New study says the Big Bang was actually a bounce inside a black hole This led them to conclude that a wormhole could "consistently replicate the QNMs" that are usually linked with static, or Schwarzschild, black holes. This is not the first time that scientists have called out blackholes for being a front for wormholes. However, the latest study adds more evidence to that belief, even though it might never be clear whether this is true, especially since humans have yet to locate this "bridge" in space. In 2021, a study theorised that supermassive black holes might merely be wormhole mouths. A year later, the static black hole proposal was put forward when a team at Sofia University in Bulgaria concluded that the disk around a traversable wormhole would emit light that might be “nearly identical” to that of a static black hole.

Black holes might just be wormholes, portals to the other side of the universe, a distant point that might not otherwise be accessible. Wormholes are also known as the Einstein-Rosen bridge.

Black holes or wormholes? Scientists find more proof that Einstein-Rosen bridge are real

Dinosaurs once dominated Earth for millions of years before an asteroid wiped them off. They were everywhere, even in the coldest regions of the planet. A new study has revealed how dinosaurs once thrived in southern Australia, which was once a part of the polar circle, an area that today is not deemed fit for human survival.It was extremely cold and frigid, yet the dinosaurs managed to survive, as fossilised bones have shown. A study has shed light on the environment they inhabited and how they lived in the chilly place that saw no light for months.&nbsp;<h2>Dinosaurs lived in the dark and cold Australia</h2>&nbsp;Around 120 million years ago, southern Australia was part of a supercontinent which also comprised Antarctica. What is today Victoria once lay 80 degrees south of the equator. The place remained dark for months, and no need to say, it was extremely cold. Still, dinosaurs managed to make it their home.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dinosaur-in-india-maleriraptor-kuttyi-survived-mass-extinction-gondwana-9064669">Dinosaur that roamed India 220 million years ago identified as Maleriraptor kuttyi</a>&nbsp;Vera Korasidis, co-author of the study, said, "What is now Victoria was located within the polar circle, up to 80 degrees south of the equator, and was shrouded in darkness for months on end." Korasidis is a lecturer in environmental geoscience at the University of Melbourne and carried out the research with Barbara Wagstaff, a specialist in pollen and spores.Scientists have constructed the ecosystem of this place 120 million years ago, during the Cretaceous period. They analysed nearly 300 samples of microscopic pollen and spores from 48 sites to learn what kind of plants grew at this time. Two species of dinosaurs thrived in Victoria - small herbivorous ornithopods and theropods, primarily carnivorous.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/surrey-village-sinkhole-victorian-tunnels-british-village-1749273182455">188-year-old tunnels discovered under British village after 62-foot sinkhole swallowed streets overnight</a>&nbsp;The study found that these dinosaurs lived in a cool-temperate forest, with towering conifers shrouding it from the top. Primitive plants like scaly ferns, forked ferns, and other early fern species were spread on the surface. Rivers helped life thrive, both for dinosaurs and the vegetation.&nbsp;<h2>Earth started warming 113 million years ago</h2>&nbsp;The researchers also learned the time it started getting warmer. This happened around 113 million years ago, when flowering plants started to gain root, changing the ecosystem. They replaced the ferns and spread across the region. This changed what the herbivorous dinosaurs ateJust when the flowering plants started making an appearance, the forest structure also witnessed a broader transformation. By around 100 million years ago, things had changed drastically. Flowering plants were everywhere in the forest. Experts think this happened because the planet had started heating up, and there were high levels of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. &nbsp;

Millions of years ago, Victoria in Australia was as cold as the Antarctic poles today, because it was part of it. However, dinosaurs still managed to live and thrive here.

Dinosaurs once dominated Earth for millions of years before an asteroid wiped them off. They were everywhere, even in the coldest regions of the planet. A new study has revealed how dinosaurs once thrived in southern Australia, which was once a part of the polar circle, an area that today is not deemed fit for human survival. It was extremely cold and frigid, yet the dinosaurs managed to survive, as fossilised bones have shown. A study has shed light on the environment they inhabited and how they lived in the chilly place that saw no light for months. Dinosaurs lived in the dark and cold Australia Around 120 million years ago, southern Australia was part of a supercontinent which also comprised Antarctica. What is today Victoria once lay 80 degrees south of the equator. The place remained dark for months, and no need to say, it was extremely cold. Still, dinosaurs managed to make it their home. Also Read: Dinosaur that roamed India 220 million years ago identified as Maleriraptor kuttyi Vera Korasidis, co-author of the study, said, "What is now Victoria was located within the polar circle, up to 80 degrees south of the equator, and was shrouded in darkness for months on end." Korasidis is a lecturer in environmental geoscience at the University of Melbourne and carried out the research with Barbara Wagstaff, a specialist in pollen and spores. Scientists have constructed the ecosystem of this place 120 million years ago, during the Cretaceous period. They analysed nearly 300 samples of microscopic pollen and spores from 48 sites to learn what kind of plants grew at this time. Two species of dinosaurs thrived in Victoria - small herbivorous ornithopods and theropods, primarily carnivorous. Also Read: 188-year-old tunnels discovered under British village after 62-foot sinkhole swallowed streets overnight The study found that these dinosaurs lived in a cool-temperate forest, with towering conifers shrouding it from the top. Primitive plants like scaly ferns, forked ferns, and other early fern species were spread on the surface. Rivers helped life thrive, both for dinosaurs and the vegetation. Earth started warming 113 million years ago The researchers also learned the time it started getting warmer. This happened around 113 million years ago, when flowering plants started to gain root, changing the ecosystem. They replaced the ferns and spread across the region. This changed what the herbivorous dinosaurs ate Just when the flowering plants started making an appearance, the forest structure also witnessed a broader transformation. By around 100 million years ago, things had changed drastically. Flowering plants were everywhere in the forest. Experts think this happened because the planet had started heating up, and there were high levels of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.

Millions of years ago, Victoria in Australia was as cold as the Antarctic poles today, because it was part of it. However, dinosaurs still managed to live and thrive here.

Dinosaurs survived a freezing dark land in Australia-Antarctica 120 million years ago

Japanese scientists developed a new plastic that dissolves in seawater within hours, an eco-friendly alternative to traditional plastic. A team of researchers from Japan has developed a new type of plastic that could help tackle the growing problem of ocean pollution. Scientists from the RIKEN Centre for Emergent Matter Science and the University of Tokyo have created a plastic material that dissolves in seawater within a few hours and leaves behind no harmful particles.&nbsp;Unlike traditional plastic, which can take hundreds of years to break down, this new material breaks down into its basic components when exposed to salt. These components are then processed by bacteria in water, producing no microplastic or nanoplastic waste.<h2>How the new plastic works</h2>The researchers demonstrated the plastic’s behaviour in a lab in Wako City, near Tokyo. In the experiment, the material was placed in salt water and dissolved in around one hour. The same process would take about 200 hours if buried in salty soil.&nbsp;The material is also reported to be non-toxic, fire-resistant, and does not release carbon dioxide during breakdown. Although it is not yet ready for commercial use, scientists are working on a coating method that could make the plastic suitable for everyday packaging.&nbsp;Project leader Takuzo Aida mentioned that the new material has already gained interest from companies in the packaging sector due to its environmental potential.<h2>Global plastic waste concerns</h2>According to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), plastic waste in oceans is expected to triple by 2040, reaching between 23 and 37 million tonnes annually. This growing concern has pushed researchers to find sustainable alternatives.&nbsp;In 2023, a study published in the British journal Nature found that India contributes to about one-fifth of global plastic pollution. The country burns 5.8 million tonnes of plastic and releases another 2.5 million tonnes into the environment each year.&nbsp;This new plastic innovation can offer hope in reducing the environmental impact, especially in countries that are struggling with plastic waste management.&nbsp;

Japanese scientists have developed a new eco-friendly plastic that dissolves in seawater within hours without leaving harmful microplastics. This innovation could help reduce ocean pollution and offers a promising alternative to traditional plastic waste.

Japanese scientists developed a new plastic that dissolves in seawater within hours, an eco-friendly alternative to traditional plastic. A team of researchers from Japan has developed a new type of plastic that could help tackle the growing problem of ocean pollution. Scientists from the RIKEN Centre for Emergent Matter Science and the University of Tokyo have created a plastic material that dissolves in seawater within a few hours and leaves behind no harmful particles. Unlike traditional plastic, which can take hundreds of years to break down, this new material breaks down into its basic components when exposed to salt. These components are then processed by bacteria in water, producing no microplastic or nanoplastic waste. How the new plastic works The researchers demonstrated the plastic’s behaviour in a lab in Wako City, near Tokyo. In the experiment, the material was placed in salt water and dissolved in around one hour. The same process would take about 200 hours if buried in salty soil. The material is also reported to be non-toxic, fire-resistant, and does not release carbon dioxide during breakdown. Although it is not yet ready for commercial use, scientists are working on a coating method that could make the plastic suitable for everyday packaging. Project leader Takuzo Aida mentioned that the new material has already gained interest from companies in the packaging sector due to its environmental potential. Global plastic waste concerns According to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), plastic waste in oceans is expected to triple by 2040, reaching between 23 and 37 million tonnes annually. This growing concern has pushed researchers to find sustainable alternatives. In 2023, a study published in the British journal Nature found that India contributes to about one-fifth of global plastic pollution. The country burns 5.8 million tonnes of plastic and releases another 2.5 million tonnes into the environment each year. This new plastic innovation can offer hope in reducing the environmental impact, especially in countries that are struggling with plastic waste management.

Japanese scientists have developed a new eco-friendly plastic that dissolves in seawater within hours without leaving harmful microplastics. This innovation could help reduce ocean pollution and offers a promising alternative to traditional plastic waste.

Japanese scientists developed eco-friendly plastic that dissolves in water, offering hope against global pollution

Elon Musk's Starlink has received a license from India, news agency Reuters reported quoting sources on Friday (June 6). If confirmed, this will be marked as a major hurdle cleared for the satellite provider. It will take Musk's company closer to launching commercial operations in India.&nbsp;Starlink has become the third-largest company to get a license from India's Department of Telecommunications. Previously, the country approved similar applications from &nbsp;Eutelsat's (ETL.PA) and OneWeb and Reliance Jio (RELJ.NS), where they asked permission to provide service in India.&nbsp;Neither Starlink nor the Department of Telecommunications has responded to the report yet.&nbsp;Since 2022, Musk's company has been trying to get a license to operate commercially in India, but delays occurred due to reasons including national security concerns.&nbsp;

Elon Musk's Starlink gets India license: Report  

Elon Musk's Starlink has received a license from India, news agency Reuters reported quoting sources on Friday (June 6). If confirmed, this will be marked as a major hurdle cleared for the satellite provider. It will take Musk's company closer to launching commercial operations in India. Starlink has become the third-largest company to get a license from India's Department of Telecommunications. Previously, the country approved similar applications from Eutelsat's (ETL.PA) and OneWeb and Reliance Jio (RELJ.NS), where they asked permission to provide service in India. Neither Starlink nor the Department of Telecommunications has responded to the report yet. Since 2022, Musk's company has been trying to get a license to operate commercially in India, but delays occurred due to reasons including national security concerns.

Elon Musk's Starlink has received a license from India, news agency Reuters reported, quoting sources on Friday (June 6). If confirmed, this will be marked as a major hurdle cleared for the satellite provider.

Elon Musk's Starlink gets India license: Report

&nbsp; Some time in the 1970s Russian scientists ignited an underground pocket of natural gas in Turkmenistan. It burned on ever since, becoming known as Gateway to Hell or Door to Hell, and becoming a tourist attraction in the reclusive central asian nation. On Thursday (Jun 5), the government said that the fire in the Darvaza gas crater has been partially contained.The fire that burned for half a century in the Karakum desert since 1971 and has been emitting methane gas in large quantities ever since, is now reduced three-fold, according to a government official. &nbsp;"Whereas before a huge glow from the blaze was visible from several kilometres away, hence the name 'Gateway to Hell', today only a faint source of combustion remains," AFP news agency quoted Irina Luryeva, a director at state-owned energy company Turkmengaz, as saying.As methane emissions add to climate crisis, several wells were drilled around the crater to capture methane.&nbsp;Turkmenistan, home to the world's fourth-largest gas reserves, is also its biggest emitter of methane through gas leaks, though the government denies this claim.<h2> The story of Darvaza gas crater</h2> The Darvaza gas crater is one of a few natural gas reserves that continue to burn after being ignited, the other famous one being Baba Gurgur in Iraq. In official parlance, it is called 'the Shining of Karakum'. The floor of the crater is lit by hundreds of natural gas fires. The crater is 260 kilometres from the Turkmen capital of Ashgabat, located in the village of Darvaza in the middle of the Karakum Desert.The crater, having a diameter of 60–70 metres and a depth of about 30 metres, emits a foul smell.Its history is mired in dispute and controversy, with some claiming that it collapsed in the 1960s. Some accounts claim that the gas fire was a result of an accident in 1971, when Soviet engineers drilled the site &nbsp;which then collapsed. They ignited the crater to prevent the emission of poisonous gases.<h2> Gateway to Hell, the tourist attraction</h2><h2>&nbsp;</h2>In spite of the bad odour, the crater remains a tourist attraction, particularly famed for the night trips to see the fire burn in all its glory. Since being declared as a natural reserve in 2013, thousands of tourists have flocked to the area.George Kourounis, who entered the bottom of the crater to collect soil &nbsp;samples in the first such effort, called it 'a coliseum of fire.'"Just everywhere you look it's thousands of these small fires. The sound was like that of a jet engine, this roaring, high-pressure, gas-burning sound. And there was no smoke. It burns very cleanly, so there's nothing to obscure your view. You can just see every little lick of flame," he told National Georgraphic Channel, which sponsored the feat.The crater was also the spot where President Berdimuhamedow famously appeared in order to dispel speculations about his death. Captured on state TV, he did doughnut stunts in the area.<h2> Efforts to contain the fire at Darvaza</h2> For decades, the Turkmen government has been trying to contain the fire.In 2022, President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedow announced plans to extinguish the crater as it was causing health issues for locals and causing environmental damage.The drilling of wells around the capture has been happening for years, with the aim to capture methane.

Gateway to Hell: Darvaza gas crater, burning since 1970s, is partially contained now. Know about its story

Some time in the 1970s Russian scientists ignited an underground pocket of natural gas in Turkmenistan. It burned on ever since, becoming known as Gateway to Hell or Door to Hell, and becoming a tourist attraction in the reclusive central asian nation. On Thursday (Jun 5), the government said that the fire in the Darvaza gas crater has been partially contained. The fire that burned for half a century in the Karakum desert since 1971 and has been emitting methane gas in large quantities ever since, is now reduced three-fold, according to a government official. "Whereas before a huge glow from the blaze was visible from several kilometres away, hence the name 'Gateway to Hell', today only a faint source of combustion remains," AFP news agency quoted Irina Luryeva, a director at state-owned energy company Turkmengaz, as saying. As methane emissions add to climate crisis, several wells were drilled around the crater to capture methane. Turkmenistan, home to the world's fourth-largest gas reserves, is also its biggest emitter of methane through gas leaks, though the government denies this claim. The story of Darvaza gas crater The Darvaza gas crater is one of a few natural gas reserves that continue to burn after being ignited, the other famous one being Baba Gurgur in Iraq. In official parlance, it is called 'the Shining of Karakum'. The floor of the crater is lit by hundreds of natural gas fires. The crater is 260 kilometres from the Turkmen capital of Ashgabat, located in the village of Darvaza in the middle of the Karakum Desert. The crater, having a diameter of 60–70 metres and a depth of about 30 metres, emits a foul smell. Its history is mired in dispute and controversy, with some claiming that it collapsed in the 1960s. Some accounts claim that the gas fire was a result of an accident in 1971, when Soviet engineers drilled the site which then collapsed. They ignited the crater to prevent the emission of poisonous gases. Gateway to Hell, the tourist attraction In spite of the bad odour, the crater remains a tourist attraction, particularly famed for the night trips to see the fire burn in all its glory. Since being declared as a natural reserve in 2013, thousands of tourists have flocked to the area. George Kourounis, who entered the bottom of the crater to collect soil samples in the first such effort, called it 'a coliseum of fire.' "Just everywhere you look it's thousands of these small fires. The sound was like that of a jet engine, this roaring, high-pressure, gas-burning sound. And there was no smoke. It burns very cleanly, so there's nothing to obscure your view. You can just see every little lick of flame," he told National Georgraphic Channel, which sponsored the feat. The crater was also the spot where President Berdimuhamedow famously appeared in order to dispel speculations about his death. Captured on state TV, he did doughnut stunts in the area. Efforts to contain the fire at Darvaza For decades, the Turkmen government has been trying to contain the fire. In 2022, President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedow announced plans to extinguish the crater as it was causing health issues for locals and causing environmental damage. The drilling of wells around the capture has been happening for years, with the aim to capture methane.

The Darvaza gas crater is one of a few natural gas reserves that continue to burn after being ignited, the other famous one being Baba Gurgur in Iraq. In official parlance, it is called 'the Shining of Karakum'.

‘Gateway to Hell’: Darvaza gas crater, burning since 1970s, is partially contained now. Know about its story

Elon Musk on Thursday (Jun 5) said that SpaceX will begin decommissioning its Dragon spacecraft. This comes after US President Donald Trump threatened to terminate the billionaire’s government subsidies and contracts amid their war of words over the tax bill.&nbsp;“In light of the President’s statement about cancellation of my government contracts, SpaceX will begin decommissioning its Dragon spacecraft immediately,” Musk wrote on X.&nbsp;Trump earlier said, “The easiest way to save money in our Budget, Billions and Billions of Dollars, is to terminate Elon’s Governmental Subsidies and Contracts. I was always surprised that Biden didn’t do it!”&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">In light of the President’s statement about cancellation of my government contracts, <a href="https://twitter.com/SpaceX?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SpaceX</a> will begin decommissioning its Dragon spacecraft immediately <a href="https://t.co/NG9sijjkgW">pic.twitter.com/NG9sijjkgW</a>&mdash; Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1930718684819112251?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 5, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

SpaceX’s Crew Dragon is currently the only US spacecraft that is certified for ferrying NASA astronauts to and from the International Space Station under a contract worth over $4.9 billion. The gumdrop-shaped capsule flies atop a Falcon 9 rocket and splashes down in the ocean. Its variant, Cargo Dragon, delivers supplies to the ISS for astronauts.&nbsp;<h2>NASA to continue working on Trump’s vision for space future</h2>&nbsp;After Musk’s announcement to decommission the spacecraft, NASA spokeswoman Bethany Stevens said that the agency will continue to work on the president’s vision for the future of space.&nbsp;“NASA will continue to execute upon the President’s vision for the future of space,” Stevens said on X. “We will continue to work with our industry partners to ensure the President’s objectives in space are met.”&nbsp;NASA had hoped to certify Boeing's Starliner for crewed missions. However, the program has been met with severe delays. In a recent test flight last year, the spacecraft faced failure after it experienced propulsion issues en route to the orbital lab with its first astronaut crew.&nbsp;The two astronauts, Sunita Williams and Butch Willmore, were brought home aboard SpaceX Dragon spacecraft earlier this year. Starliner, on the other hand, returned empty after being deemed not safe for carrying the astronauts back home.&nbsp;<h2>SpaceX’s Crew Dragon</h2>&nbsp;Crew Dragon’s certification in 2020 ended the reliance on Russian Soyuz rockets to carry astronauts to space after the Space Shuttle program ended in 2011.&nbsp;Apart from NASA missions, Crew Dragon also flies private missions, with the most recent being Fram2, which carried tourists over the Earth’s poles.&nbsp;The next scheduled launch for the spacecraft is the Axiom-4 mission on Tuesday (Jun 10). The Crew Dragon will carry astronauts from India, Poland, and Hungary to the space station.&nbsp;Meanwhile, as the rift between Trump and Musk grows wider, Tesla shares have also plummeted more than 15 per cent on Thursday, recording a loss of over $100 billion in market capitalisation.

“In light of the President’s statement about cancellation of my government contracts, SpaceX will begin decommissioning its Dragon spacecraft immediately,” Musk wrote on X.

Elon Musk on Thursday (Jun 5) said that SpaceX will begin decommissioning its Dragon spacecraft. This comes after US President Donald Trump threatened to terminate the billionaire’s government subsidies and contracts amid their war of words over the tax bill. “In light of the President’s statement about cancellation of my government contracts, SpaceX will begin decommissioning its Dragon spacecraft immediately,” Musk wrote on X. Trump earlier said, “The easiest way to save money in our Budget, Billions and Billions of Dollars, is to terminate Elon’s Governmental Subsidies and Contracts. I was always surprised that Biden didn’t do it!”

“In light of the President’s statement about cancellation of my government contracts, SpaceX will begin decommissioning its Dragon spacecraft immediately,” Musk wrote on X.

Trump-Musk row: SpaceX CEO announces decommissioning of Dragon spacecraft

The Axiom-4 mission has a confirmed launch date, and when the Falcon 9 rocket lifts off from NASA’s Kennedy Space Centre in Florida on June 10, 2025, it will carry four astronauts, scientific equipment, and a small plush swan named ‘Joy’. The soft toy is set to travel aboard the SpaceX Crew Dragon, marking a very unique and symbolic part of the mission.&nbsp;‘Joy’ will act as the mission’s zero-gravity indicator, which is a longstanding custom in crewed spaceflight. Often, astronauts carry a small object that begins to float once the spacecraft reaches orbit visibly signalling the onset of microgravity. This practice began in 1961 with Soviet cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin, who carried a doll during his Vostok flight. Ever since, soft toys have accompanied astronauts in both Russian and American missions, including recent SpaceX flights.

'Joy' the swan

<h2>A collective choice&nbsp;</h2>This time, the Ax-4 crew collectively selected a swan as the object of choice. During the pre-flight media briefing, the four-member international crew shared the meaning behind their decision. For Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla of the Indian Air Force, who will serve as pilot, the swan has cultural and philosophical importance.&nbsp;Shukla said the swan represents the ability to separate milk from water, a metaphor for discernment. He added that carrying ‘Joy’ will keep him grounded in his cultural values and prepared for the mission ahead.&nbsp;

<h2>Cultural Symbolism and Crew Unity</h2>Commander Peggy Whitson, a former NASA astronaut and the leader of the Axiom-4 mission, explained that ‘Joy’, the swan also serves as a shared cultural emblem. While the swan represents wisdom in India, it represents resilience in Poland and grace in Hungary. She said the toy reflects unity among all the four participating nations. Once in orbit, ‘Joy’ will float inside the capsule, captured on camera for mission observers.&nbsp;With the Axiom 4 mission, Shubhanshu Shukla is set to become the second Indian to fly in space, after Rakesh Sharma’s 1984 Soviet mission. He is also the first Indian to join an international commercial human spaceflight. The Ax-4 crew includes astronauts from the US, Poland, and Hungary, each making history for their nations.&nbsp;Originally scheduled for May 29, the mission was delayed to 10 June due to weather and readiness factors. The team will spend two weeks or 14 days in space, aboard the International Space Station, conducting about 60 experiments and outreach activities.

The soft toy is set to travel aboard the SpaceX Crew Dragon, marking a very unique and symbolic part of the mission.

The Axiom-4 mission has a confirmed launch date, and when the Falcon 9 rocket lifts off from NASA’s Kennedy Space Centre in Florida on June 10, 2025, it will carry four astronauts, scientific equipment, and a small plush swan named ‘Joy’. The soft toy is set to travel aboard the SpaceX Crew Dragon, marking a very unique and symbolic part of the mission. ‘Joy’ will act as the mission’s zero-gravity indicator, which is a longstanding custom in crewed spaceflight. Often, astronauts carry a small object that begins to float once the spacecraft reaches orbit visibly signalling the onset of microgravity. This practice began in 1961 with Soviet cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin, who carried a doll during his Vostok flight. Ever since, soft toys have accompanied astronauts in both Russian and American missions, including recent SpaceX flights.

The soft toy is set to travel aboard the SpaceX Crew Dragon, marking a very unique and symbolic part of the mission.

ISRO’s Shubhanshu Shukla to take ‘Joy’ to space: Swan toy to join Axiom crew aboard ISS

French firm Dassault Aviation and India's Tata Advanced Systems Limited have signed four Production Transfer Agreements to manufacture the Rafale fighter aircraft's fuselage(body or primary structure) in India. The Indian Air Force has been operating 36 Rafale jets, and the Indian Navy has placed orders for 26 Rafale Marine aircraft carrier-based jets. This is a significant step in Indo-French defence cooperation.&nbsp;"For the first time, Rafale fuselages will be produced outside France. This is a decisive step in strengthening our supply chain in India. Thanks to the expansion of our local partners, including TASL, one of the major players in the Indian aerospace industry, this supply chain will contribute to the successful ramp-up of the Rafale and, with our support, will meet our quality and competitiveness requirements," said Eric Trappier, Chairman and CEO of Dassault Aviation.&nbsp;Under the scope of the partnership, Tata Advanced Systems will set up a production facility in Hyderabad for the manufacture of key structural sections of the Rafale, including the lateral shells of the rear fuselage, the complete rear section, the central fuselage, and the front section, the firms said.&nbsp;According to the firms, the first fuselage sections are expected to roll off the assembly line in FY2028, with the facility expected to deliver up to two complete fuselages per month. Sukaran Singh, CEO and MD, Tata Advanced Systems Limited, said, “The production of the complete Rafale fuselage in India underscores the deepening trust in Tata Advanced Systems’ capabilities and the strength of our collaboration with Dassault Aviation. It also reflects the remarkable progress India has made in establishing a modern, robust aerospace manufacturing ecosystem that can support global platforms.”&nbsp;With over 10,000 military and civil aircraft (including 2,700 Falcons) delivered in more than 90 countries over the last century, Dassault Aviation has expertise in the design, production, sale and support of all types of aircraft, ranging from the Rafale fighter, to the high-end Falcon family of business jets, military drones and space systems. Tata Advanced Systems Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of Tata Sons, is a significant player for aerospace and defence solutions in India. TASL offers a full range of integrated solutions across: Aerostructures &amp; Aeroengines, Airborne Platforms &amp; Systems, Defence &amp; Security, and Land Mobility. Tata Advanced Systems has a strong portfolio of partnerships and joint ventures with leading global aerospace and defence firms, making it an integral partner in the international supply chain and in some instances, a global single-source provider for leading aerospace and defence Original Equipment Manufacturers(OEMs). &nbsp;

Rafale fighter jet bodies to be made in India; Roll out from 2028


French firm Dassault Aviation and India's Tata Advanced Systems Limited have signed four Production Transfer Agreements to manufacture the Rafale fighter aircraft's fuselage(body or primary structure) in India. The Indian Air Force has been operating 36 Rafale jets, and the Indian Navy has placed orders for 26 Rafale Marine aircraft carrier-based jets. This is a significant step in Indo-French defence cooperation. "For the first time, Rafale fuselages will be produced outside France. This is a decisive step in strengthening our supply chain in India. Thanks to the expansion of our local partners, including TASL, one of the major players in the Indian aerospace industry, this supply chain will contribute to the successful ramp-up of the Rafale and, with our support, will meet our quality and competitiveness requirements," said Eric Trappier, Chairman and CEO of Dassault Aviation. Under the scope of the partnership, Tata Advanced Systems will set up a production facility in Hyderabad for the manufacture of key structural sections of the Rafale, including the lateral shells of the rear fuselage, the complete rear section, the central fuselage, and the front section, the firms said. According to the firms, the first fuselage sections are expected to roll off the assembly line in FY2028, with the facility expected to deliver up to two complete fuselages per month. Sukaran Singh, CEO and MD, Tata Advanced Systems Limited, said, “The production of the complete Rafale fuselage in India underscores the deepening trust in Tata Advanced Systems’ capabilities and the strength of our collaboration with Dassault Aviation. It also reflects the remarkable progress India has made in establishing a modern, robust aerospace manufacturing ecosystem that can support global platforms.” With over 10,000 military and civil aircraft (including 2,700 Falcons) delivered in more than 90 countries over the last century, Dassault Aviation has expertise in the design, production, sale and support of all types of aircraft, ranging from the Rafale fighter, to the high-end Falcon family of business jets, military drones and space systems. Tata Advanced Systems Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of Tata Sons, is a significant player for aerospace and defence solutions in India. TASL offers a full range of integrated solutions across: Aerostructures & Aeroengines, Airborne Platforms & Systems, Defence & Security, and Land Mobility. Tata Advanced Systems has a strong portfolio of partnerships and joint ventures with leading global aerospace and defence firms, making it an integral partner in the international supply chain and in some instances, a global single-source provider for leading aerospace and defence Original Equipment Manufacturers(OEMs).

French firm Dassault Aviation and India's Tata Advanced Systems Limited have signed four Production Transfer Agreements to manufacture the Rafale fighter aircraft's fuselage(body or primary structure) in India.&nbsp;

Rafale fighter jet bodies to be made in India; Roll out from 2028

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