NASA's Jet Propulsion Lab is having a "going out of business sale" for its satellites, according to NASA Watch, a blog run by former NASA astrobiologist Keith Cowing. This comes amid the Trump administration's plans to cut funding to the space agency, thus hitting several projects related not only to other cosmic bodies, but also Earth. On sale are several Earth-monitoring satellites that studied the effects of climate change, the environment and predicted hurricanes. There are also some that are yet to be launched, such as the Geostationary Littoral Imaging and Monitoring Radiometer (GLIMR) instrument, The Byte reported. The sale, according to NASA Watch, is a way to raise funds for other projects. Cowing wrote that the Trump administration's 2026 budget request had asked for the satellites to be "shut down". Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/apollo-11-anniversary-conspiracy-theories-about-moon-landing-being-faked-swirl-once-again-1752748307052">Apollo 11 anniversary: Conspiracy theories about moon landing being faked swirl once again</a>&nbsp;<h2>NASA budget cuts</h2>NASA budget cuts angered several experts, who called it "an extinction-level event for space science and exploration". The Trump administration is planning to cut down NASA's science directorate budget by more than half. However, Cowing said that NASA's Jet Propulsion Lab isn't really hopeful of things changing and is going ahead with the shutdown of the satellites. He wrote that the lab is looking to offload the satellites to "government and private sector buyers", which would help it raise funds. The Byte asked Cowing for more details, to which he responded that he "posts what he knows", and things are still evolving. Meanwhile, his story drew unhappy reactions from the scientific community.&nbsp;Meanwhile, there were some who found humour in the post, especially Cowing's words - "going out of business sale". JPL senior engineer Luis Amaro wrote in a LinkedIn post, "We got to keep a sense of humor these days at JPL." Yusef Johnson, mission integration lead of NASA's Artemis IV mission, one of the major projects to take a hit from budget cuts, called out the people who voted for Trump, adding, "Snake oil still sells." Notably, these satellites provide crucial data about the environment and weather patterns, alerting about major changes and the corresponding events like hurricanes. Trump has often denied that climate change is real, and experts say that this non-serious attitude is responsible for shutting down several operations at NASA. &nbsp;

NASA's Jet Propulsion Lab is selling off some satellites as part of the ‘going out of business sale’, NASA Watch reported. The space agency's budget for the year 2026 is reportedly going to be cut down massively. This sale is apparently to raise funds.

NASA's Jet Propulsion Lab is having a "going out of business sale" for its satellites, according to NASA Watch, a blog run by former NASA astrobiologist Keith Cowing. This comes amid the Trump administration's plans to cut funding to the space agency, thus hitting several projects related not only to other cosmic bodies, but also Earth. On sale are several Earth-monitoring satellites that studied the effects of climate change, the environment and predicted hurricanes. There are also some that are yet to be launched, such as the Geostationary Littoral Imaging and Monitoring Radiometer (GLIMR) instrument, The Byte reported. The sale, according to NASA Watch, is a way to raise funds for other projects. Cowing wrote that the Trump administration's 2026 budget request had asked for the satellites to be "shut down". Also Read: Apollo 11 anniversary: Conspiracy theories about moon landing being faked swirl once again NASA budget cuts NASA budget cuts angered several experts, who called it "an extinction-level event for space science and exploration". The Trump administration is planning to cut down NASA's science directorate budget by more than half. However, Cowing said that NASA's Jet Propulsion Lab isn't really hopeful of things changing and is going ahead with the shutdown of the satellites. He wrote that the lab is looking to offload the satellites to "government and private sector buyers", which would help it raise funds. The Byte asked Cowing for more details, to which he responded that he "posts what he knows", and things are still evolving. Meanwhile, his story drew unhappy reactions from the scientific community. Meanwhile, there were some who found humour in the post, especially Cowing's words - "going out of business sale". JPL senior engineer Luis Amaro wrote in a LinkedIn post, "We got to keep a sense of humor these days at JPL." Yusef Johnson, mission integration lead of NASA's Artemis IV mission, one of the major projects to take a hit from budget cuts, called out the people who voted for Trump, adding, "Snake oil still sells." Notably, these satellites provide crucial data about the environment and weather patterns, alerting about major changes and the corresponding events like hurricanes. Trump has often denied that climate change is real, and experts say that this non-serious attitude is responsible for shutting down several operations at NASA.

NASA's Jet Propulsion Lab is selling off some satellites as part of the ‘going out of business sale’, NASA Watch reported. The space agency's budget for the year 2026 is reportedly going to be cut down massively. This sale is apprently to raise funds.

Satellites for sale: NASA JPL is looking to get rid of some satellites already in space

Apollo 11 took off for the Moon on July 16, 1969, and landed on July 20. Neil Armstrong became the first man to put a foot on the Moon. The world watched as NASA achieved the historic feat. However, ever since then, conspiracy theories have swirled that the landing was faked by the space agency. People point to the fact that humans have not been able to return to the Moon since the Apollo missions ended. If NASA has the technology to reach the Moon in five days with people on board, why hasn't it been able to do it again? As the 56th anniversary of the Apollo 11 mission approaches, social media is once again abuzz with chatter that Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin and Michael Collins never actually went to the Moon. People have dug up old interviews of Aldrin, where he seemingly admits that America never went to the Moon.&nbsp;The first interview was on the Conan O'Brien Show in 2000. The host talks about watching the astronauts land on the Moon as a young boy. Aldrin interjects, "No, you didn't. There wasn't any television, and there wasn't anyone taking a picture. You watched an animation." People have often raised doubts about the photos and videos of the Moon showing Armstrong and Aldrin walking on the lunar surface. The two spent two and a quarter hours on the lunar surface exploring Tranquillity Base, the site where they landed. They also brought back samples of lunar soil and spent a total of 21 hours, 36 minutes on the Moon.&nbsp;<h2>Animations of Apollo moon landing</h2>"You watched animation so you associated what you saw with… you heard me talking about, you know, how many feet we're going to the left and right and then I said contact light, engine stopped, a few other things and then Neil said 'Houston, tranquillity base," Aldrin told O'Brien. However, what Aldrin was really referring to here was the TV animations that television channels used while covering the story. NASA has maintained that the Apollo missions were real. It points to telemetry data, lunar rock samples, and the testimonies of thousands of engineers, scientists, and astronauts as proof of the mission’s authenticity.&nbsp;In another interview from 2015, a little girl asks Aldrin why no one has returned to the Moon. He responds, "Because we didn't go there, and that's the way it happened." However, this is also an edited clip and is cut off before Aldrin clarifies what he meant. The astronaut clarified that the reason why it didn't happen again was because government priorities had changed and there was lack of funding. The 1970s in the US witnessed political turmoil because of the Watergate scandal and the Pentagon Papers. There was growing mistrust among the public, and it spilt over to the Apollo mission as well.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Apollo 11 anniversary: Buzz Aldrin, the second man to land on the Moon, said some things which are now being used on social media to state that the landing was faked. People started raising doubts about the mission in the 70s.  

Apollo 11 took off for the Moon on July 16, 1969, and landed on July 20. Neil Armstrong became the first man to put a foot on the Moon. The world watched as NASA achieved the historic feat. However, ever since then, conspiracy theories have swirled that the landing was faked by the space agency. People point to the fact that humans have not been able to return to the Moon since the Apollo missions ended. If NASA has the technology to reach the Moon in five days with people on board, why hasn't it been able to do it again? As the 56th anniversary of the Apollo 11 mission approaches, social media is once again abuzz with chatter that Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin and Michael Collins never actually went to the Moon. People have dug up old interviews of Aldrin, where he seemingly admits that America never went to the Moon. The first interview was on the Conan O'Brien Show in 2000. The host talks about watching the astronauts land on the Moon as a young boy. Aldrin interjects, "No, you didn't. There wasn't any television, and there wasn't anyone taking a picture. You watched an animation." People have often raised doubts about the photos and videos of the Moon showing Armstrong and Aldrin walking on the lunar surface. The two spent two and a quarter hours on the lunar surface exploring Tranquillity Base, the site where they landed. They also brought back samples of lunar soil and spent a total of 21 hours, 36 minutes on the Moon. Animations of Apollo moon landing "You watched animation so you associated what you saw with… you heard me talking about, you know, how many feet we're going to the left and right and then I said contact light, engine stopped, a few other things and then Neil said 'Houston, tranquillity base," Aldrin told O'Brien. However, what Aldrin was really referring to here was the TV animations that television channels used while covering the story. NASA has maintained that the Apollo missions were real. It points to telemetry data, lunar rock samples, and the testimonies of thousands of engineers, scientists, and astronauts as proof of the mission’s authenticity. In another interview from 2015, a little girl asks Aldrin why no one has returned to the Moon. He responds, "Because we didn't go there, and that's the way it happened." However, this is also an edited clip and is cut off before Aldrin clarifies what he meant. The astronaut clarified that the reason why it didn't happen again was because government priorities had changed and there was lack of funding. The 1970s in the US witnessed political turmoil because of the Watergate scandal and the Pentagon Papers. There was growing mistrust among the public, and it spilt over to the Apollo mission as well.

Apollo 11 anniversary: Buzz Aldrin, the second man to land on the Moon, said some things which are now being used on social media to state that the landing was faked. People started raising doubts about the mission in the 70s. &nbsp;

Apollo 11 anniversary: Conspiracy theories about moon landing being faked swirl once again

This method mirrors the recent return of Sunita Williams aboard Boeing’s Starliner just weeks ago, although 41 years earlier, India’s first astronaut, Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma, had touched down on solid ground rather than at sea.

This method mirrors the recent return of Sunita Williams aboard Boeing’s Starliner just weeks ago, although 41 years earlier, India’s first astronaut, Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma, had touched down on solid ground rather than at sea.

Why astronauts trust the ocean? The science behind Shubhanshu Shukla’s splashdown

NASA have made several intriguing discoveries, including the presence of organic molecules on Mars and possible water ice on the Moon, but some discoveries are so bizarre, they have baffled many scientists. Here are some of the strange findings made by NASA.

NASA have made several intriguing discoveries, including the presence of organic molecules on Mars and possible water ice on the Moon, but some discoveries are so bizarre, they have baffled many scientists. Here are some of the strange findings made by NASA.

Unexplained doorways, mysterious faces: Strange things found by NASA on Mars that will blow your mind

Ever since the Soviet Union successfully launched an artificial satellite, Sputnik 1, into space on 4 October 1957, it has fascinated the other most powerful nations on Earth too. It has promoted financing expensive missions costing billions of dollars to unearth life beyond earth.

Ever since the Soviet Union successfully launched an artificial satellite, Sputnik 1, into space on 4 October 1957, it has fascinated the other most powerful nations on Earth too, resulting in financing expensive missions costing billions of dollars to unearth life beyond Earth.

From NASA to ISRO: Look at the 6 most expensive space missions ever

India's astronaut, Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, and the Axiom-4 crew aboard the Dragon spacecraft splashed down in the Pacific Ocean on Tuesday, after an 18-day stay on the International Space Station (ISS). Shukla is the only Indian to have visited the space station. India's space agency, ISRO, said today that he performed several scientific experiments on the gigantic space facility. The body also revealed how much it spent to send the astronaut to space. Nilesh M Desai, Director, Space Applications Centre, ISRO, said that the mission will help India in executing its Gaganyaan programme.&nbsp;"This has been an unforgettable experience for him (Subhanshu Shukla). He carried out multiple experiments aboard the Space Shuttle and the International Space Station. After experiencing space and microgravity, he conducted several scientific tests. This mission has been a major learning opportunity for us. ISRO took up this mission to gather experience that will help us in our Gaganyaan programme," said Desai.&nbsp;He said that before sending an Indian astronaut aboard the Gaganyaan spacecraft, the space agency will send three unmanned flights.&nbsp;"As part of our programme, we will launch an unmanned mission this year, followed by two more unmanned flights. After that, an Indian astronaut will be sent into space onboard the Gaganyaan spacecraft. The astronaut will stay in space for two to seven days and return to Earth. The experience gained by Shubanshu Shukla during his time on the ISS will be extremely valuable for the Gaganyaan programme planned over the next two years," he said.&nbsp;Desai said Rs 600 crore was spent by India on the Axiom mission.&nbsp;"Around Rs 600 crore were spent on this mission, covering training for two astronauts and other space journey preparations. The insights gained after 15 days in space will help us enhance the success of the Gaganyaan mission," Desai mentioned.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/shubhanshu-shukla-axiom-4-return-how-does-space-impact-astronauts-health-1752550718263">Also read: Shubhanshu Shukla, Axiom-4 return: How does space impact astronauts' health?</a>&nbsp;He also emphasised the importance of India-US space cooperation and the pact signed between ISRO and NASA during Prime Minister Modi's US visit.&nbsp;"With the new information we have gathered, we can plan the Gaganyaan mission more effectively. This mission was done in collaboration with NASA and SpaceX. During the Indian Prime Minister's recent visit to the US, an agreement was signed between ISRO and NASA allowing one Indian astronaut to travel to the ISS under a US mission," he added.&nbsp;He said two astronauts were chosen and trained for several months. However, in the end, Shubhanshu Shukla got the chance to go to the space station.&nbsp;“Shubhanshu Shukla was accompanied by another astronaut, Prashant Nair, who was fully prepared to step in if needed. However, there was no requirement for that. Shukla was launched aboard the Dragonfly spacecraft using the Falcon launch vehicle from SpaceX on June 25. It docked with the International Space Station on June 26. Over 15 days, he conducted various scientific experiments, and today the spacecraft was undocked,” he added.

India's astronaut, Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, and the Axiom-4 crew aboard the Dragon spacecraft splashed down in the Pacific Ocean on Tuesday, after an 18-day stay on the International Space Station (ISS). Shukla is the only Indian to have visited the space station.

India's astronaut, Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, and the Axiom-4 crew aboard the Dragon spacecraft splashed down in the Pacific Ocean on Tuesday, after an 18-day stay on the International Space Station (ISS). Shukla is the only Indian to have visited the space station. India's space agency, ISRO, said today that he performed several scientific experiments on the gigantic space facility. The body also revealed how much it spent to send the astronaut to space. Nilesh M Desai, Director, Space Applications Centre, ISRO, said that the mission will help India in executing its Gaganyaan programme. "This has been an unforgettable experience for him (Subhanshu Shukla). He carried out multiple experiments aboard the Space Shuttle and the International Space Station. After experiencing space and microgravity, he conducted several scientific tests. This mission has been a major learning opportunity for us. ISRO took up this mission to gather experience that will help us in our Gaganyaan programme," said Desai. He said that before sending an Indian astronaut aboard the Gaganyaan spacecraft, the space agency will send three unmanned flights. "As part of our programme, we will launch an unmanned mission this year, followed by two more unmanned flights. After that, an Indian astronaut will be sent into space onboard the Gaganyaan spacecraft. The astronaut will stay in space for two to seven days and return to Earth. The experience gained by Shubanshu Shukla during his time on the ISS will be extremely valuable for the Gaganyaan programme planned over the next two years," he said. Desai said Rs 600 crore was spent by India on the Axiom mission. "Around Rs 600 crore were spent on this mission, covering training for two astronauts and other space journey preparations. The insights gained after 15 days in space will help us enhance the success of the Gaganyaan mission," Desai mentioned. Also read: Shubhanshu Shukla, Axiom-4 return: How does space impact astronauts' health? He also emphasised the importance of India-US space cooperation and the pact signed between ISRO and NASA during Prime Minister Modi's US visit. "With the new information we have gathered, we can plan the Gaganyaan mission more effectively. This mission was done in collaboration with NASA and SpaceX. During the Indian Prime Minister's recent visit to the US, an agreement was signed between ISRO and NASA allowing one Indian astronaut to travel to the ISS under a US mission," he added. He said two astronauts were chosen and trained for several months. However, in the end, Shubhanshu Shukla got the chance to go to the space station. “Shubhanshu Shukla was accompanied by another astronaut, Prashant Nair, who was fully prepared to step in if needed. However, there was no requirement for that. Shukla was launched aboard the Dragonfly spacecraft using the Falcon launch vehicle from SpaceX on June 25. It docked with the International Space Station on June 26. Over 15 days, he conducted various scientific experiments, and today the spacecraft was undocked,” he added.

Shubhanshu Shukla returns: ISRO said that the mission will help India in executing its Gaganyaan mission.&nbsp;

Shubhanshu Shukla returns: ISRO reveals its Axiom mission cost, Chandrayaan plan

After NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore's 8 days space journey turned into a 286-day ordeal following their spacecraft suffering propulsion failures, forcing National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) to keep them aboard the International Space Station (ISS) until a safe return in 2025, everyone would be considering their journey as the longest time in space on a single mission of the all time. But, there are several astronauts whose number of days in space on a single mission is more than Sunita's.From record-holder Valeri Polyakov to Andrew Morgan, there are several astronauts who resisted gravity for a number of months. So, here is the list of the top 10 astronauts who spent the longest time in space on a single mission.Watch: Shubhanshu Shukla and Axiom crew to return to Earth<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/shubhanshu-shukla-and-axiom-crew-to-return-to-earth-1752484467578/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/shubhanshu-shukla-and-axiom-crew-to-return-to-earth-1752484467578/embed</a>&nbsp;<h3>1. Valeri Polyakov (437 days)</h3>The Russian cosmonaut secured the top post for spending the longest time in space, and holding the record for the longest single spaceflight. Polyakov remained 437 days aboard the Mir space station from January 8, 1994, to March 22, 1995. According to a report by the New Mexico Museum of Space History, he conducted 25 experiments on the effects of long-duration space travel, orbiting the Earth over 7,000 times before returning.<h3>2. Sergei Avdeyev (379 days)</h3>Sergei spent an impressive 379 days in space aboard the Mir space station between August 13, 1998, and August 28, 1999, during the Mir EO-17 and EO-18 missions. His stay was extended unexpectedly due to adjustments in another crew member’s schedule.<h3>3. Frank Rubio (371 days)</h3>NASA astronaut Frank Rubio set a new US spaceflight record by spending 371 consecutive days aboard the International Space Station (ISS). Originally planned as a six-month mission, but the duration was extended after a coolant leak on the Soyuz MS-22 spacecraft, which launched on September 21, 2022 and returned on September 27, 2023.<h3>4. Vladimir Titov and Musa Manarov (365 days)</h3>Musa Manarov and Vladimir Titov became the first humans to completely orbit around the sun while in space by spending 365 days, 22 hours, and 38 minutes in orbit from December 1987 to December 1988.<h3>5. Mark Vande Hei (355 days)</h3>He spent 355 days aboard the ISS, whose mission began on April 9, 2021, with Oleg Novitskiy and Pyotr Dubrov, and landed on Earth on March 30, 2022. He orbited Earth 5,680 times and travelled over 150 million miles during his mission. Amid the space mission, he also researched muscle loss and space farming, including growing chile peppers in microgravity.<h3>6. Scott Kelly and Mikhail Kornienko (340 days)</h3>Russian cosmonaut Mikhail Kornienko and NASA astronaut Scott Kelly completed a historic 340-day mission aboard the ISS in 2016. The “One-Year Mission” was launched on March 27, 2015, via Soyuz TMA-16M, focusing on human adaptation to space, conducting over 400 experiments on radiation, weightlessness, and isolation. Their findings in the 340 days of the space mission helped shape the plans of the NASA for Mars exploration.<h3>7. Christina Koch (328 days)</h3>Christina Koch, the NASA astronaut, spent her 328 days in space, began her space journey aboard Soyuz MS-12 on March 14, 2019, and completed on February 6, 2020, via Soyuz MS-13. She worked on cutting-edge research, including biological 3D printing and pharmaceutical studies, and finished six spacewalks, including the first all-female spacewalks, totalling 42 hours and 15 minutes.<h3>8. Peggy Whitson (289 days)</h3>Whitson spent 289 days aboard the ISS from November 17, 2016, to September 3, 2017, achieving the record for the longest single spaceflight by a woman at the time. She also holds the record for the most cumulative days in space, with a total of 675 days across multiple missions.<h3>9. Sunita Williams and Barry “Butch” Wilmore (286 days)</h3>NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Barry Butch Wilmore completed an unplanned nine-month stay aboard the International Space Station (ISS), returning safely to Earth on Wednesday, March 19, 2025. Initially scheduled for a brief mission in June 2024, their trip was extended due to propulsion issues with their Boeing Starliner spacecraft. They ultimately made their return via the Crew-9 Dragon capsule, landing off the coast of Florida.<h3>10. Andrew Morgan (272 days)</h3>NASA astronaut Andrew Morgan spent a total of 272 days aboard the ISS, completing 4,352 orbits of Earth and travelling approximately 115 million miles. His mission involved significant scientific work across biology, Earth observation, and technological innovation. Morgan also carried out seven spacewalks, including crucial repairs on the Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer, an instrument vital to dark matter studies.&nbsp;

This article highlights a list of the top 10 astronauts with their groundbreaking missions in space who have contributed significantly to our understanding of the universe, extraterrestrial activities, and have also paved the way for future deep-space exploration.
 

After NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore's 8 days space journey turned into a 286-day ordeal following their spacecraft suffering propulsion failures, forcing National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) to keep them aboard the International Space Station (ISS) until a safe return in 2025, everyone would be considering their journey as the longest time in space on a single mission of the all time. But, there are several astronauts whose number of days in space on a single mission is more than Sunita's. From record-holder Valeri Polyakov to Andrew Morgan, there are several astronauts who resisted gravity for a number of months. So, here is the list of the top 10 astronauts who spent the longest time in space on a single mission. Watch: Shubhanshu Shukla and Axiom crew to return to Earth https://www.wionews.com/videos/shubhanshu-shukla-and-axiom-crew-to-return-to-earth-1752484467578/embed 1. Valeri Polyakov (437 days) The Russian cosmonaut secured the top post for spending the longest time in space, and holding the record for the longest single spaceflight. Polyakov remained 437 days aboard the Mir space station from January 8, 1994, to March 22, 1995. According to a report by the New Mexico Museum of Space History, he conducted 25 experiments on the effects of long-duration space travel, orbiting the Earth over 7,000 times before returning. 2. Sergei Avdeyev (379 days) Sergei spent an impressive 379 days in space aboard the Mir space station between August 13, 1998, and August 28, 1999, during the Mir EO-17 and EO-18 missions. His stay was extended unexpectedly due to adjustments in another crew member’s schedule. 3. Frank Rubio (371 days) NASA astronaut Frank Rubio set a new US spaceflight record by spending 371 consecutive days aboard the International Space Station (ISS). Originally planned as a six-month mission, but the duration was extended after a coolant leak on the Soyuz MS-22 spacecraft, which launched on September 21, 2022 and returned on September 27, 2023. 4. Vladimir Titov and Musa Manarov (365 days) Musa Manarov and Vladimir Titov became the first humans to completely orbit around the sun while in space by spending 365 days, 22 hours, and 38 minutes in orbit from December 1987 to December 1988. 5. Mark Vande Hei (355 days) He spent 355 days aboard the ISS, whose mission began on April 9, 2021, with Oleg Novitskiy and Pyotr Dubrov, and landed on Earth on March 30, 2022. He orbited Earth 5,680 times and travelled over 150 million miles during his mission. Amid the space mission, he also researched muscle loss and space farming, including growing chile peppers in microgravity. 6. Scott Kelly and Mikhail Kornienko (340 days) Russian cosmonaut Mikhail Kornienko and NASA astronaut Scott Kelly completed a historic 340-day mission aboard the ISS in 2016. The “One-Year Mission” was launched on March 27, 2015, via Soyuz TMA-16M, focusing on human adaptation to space, conducting over 400 experiments on radiation, weightlessness, and isolation. Their findings in the 340 days of the space mission helped shape the plans of the NASA for Mars exploration. 7. Christina Koch (328 days) Christina Koch, the NASA astronaut, spent her 328 days in space, began her space journey aboard Soyuz MS-12 on March 14, 2019, and completed on February 6, 2020, via Soyuz MS-13. She worked on cutting-edge research, including biological 3D printing and pharmaceutical studies, and finished six spacewalks, including the first all-female spacewalks, totalling 42 hours and 15 minutes. 8. Peggy Whitson (289 days) Whitson spent 289 days aboard the ISS from November 17, 2016, to September 3, 2017, achieving the record for the longest single spaceflight by a woman at the time. She also holds the record for the most cumulative days in space, with a total of 675 days across multiple missions. 9. Sunita Williams and Barry “Butch” Wilmore (286 days) NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Barry Butch Wilmore completed an unplanned nine-month stay aboard the International Space Station (ISS), returning safely to Earth on Wednesday, March 19, 2025. Initially scheduled for a brief mission in June 2024, their trip was extended due to propulsion issues with their Boeing Starliner spacecraft. They ultimately made their return via the Crew-9 Dragon capsule, landing off the coast of Florida. 10. Andrew Morgan (272 days) NASA astronaut Andrew Morgan spent a total of 272 days aboard the ISS, completing 4,352 orbits of Earth and travelling approximately 115 million miles. His mission involved significant scientific work across biology, Earth observation, and technological innovation. Morgan also carried out seven spacewalks, including crucial repairs on the Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer, an instrument vital to dark matter studies.

This article highlights a list of the top 10 astronauts with their groundbreaking missions in space who have contributed significantly to our understanding of the universe, extraterrestrial activities, and have also paved the way for future deep-space exploration. &nbsp;

Do you know who holds the real record for 'longest' space mission? Here's a list of top 10—Check details

NASA’s Parker Solar Probe has taken the closest images ever from the Sun, capturing eerie waves just 3.8 million miles from the solar surface. These photos show the Sun in a new light and can help scientists better understand the Sun’s influence across the solar system. The new images will also offer insights into events that affect Earth. The shots show solar wind flowing through our star's atmosphere. “Parker Solar Probe has once again transported us into the dynamic atmosphere of our closest star,” Nicky Fox, associate administrator, Science Mission Directorate at NASA Headquarters in Washington, said. “We are witnessing where space weather threats to Earth begin, with our eyes, not just with models." He added that the latest data can help "improve our space weather predictions to ensure the safety of our astronauts and the protection of our technology here on Earth and throughout the solar system." Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/earth-is-unknowingly-sending-signals-to-alien-civilisations-200-light-years-away-1752059769260">Earth is unknowingly sending signals into space revealing our location to aliens</a> &nbsp;<h2>Watch the Parker Solar Probe video here</h2>

These photos were taken late last year when the Parker probe made its closest approach to the Sun on December 24, 2024. The probe brushed past the Sun’s outer atmosphere, called the corona. In doing so, it collected data with an array of scientific instruments, including the Wide-Field Imager for Solar Probe, or WISPR. Solar winds can be clearly seen in the photos, which are nothing but a constant stream of electrically charged particles released by the Sun that whip the entire solar system. The material and magnetic currents ejected by the Sun hit Earth and other planets. Here, they not only produce beautiful auroras, but a strong wave can affect power grids and disrupt communications. Scientists have been working to learn more about the solar winds, and looking directly at the point where the solar wind originates can offer a peek into how this happens in the Sun. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/is-a-rogue-planet-roaming-in-the-solar-system-dwarf-planet-sedna-2076-1752223198472">Is a rogue exoplanet roaming in the solar system? The answer cannot be revealed before 2076</a>&nbsp;“In these images, we’re seeing the Coronal Mass Ejections (CMEs) basically piling up on top of one another,” said Angelos Vourlidas, the WISPR instrument scientist at the Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory. Vourlidas and his team are behind the design, construction and operation of the spacecraft. “We’re using this to figure out how the CMEs merge together, which can be important for space weather.” Coronal Mass Ejections can prove dangerous to several systems on Earth. Not only this, but they can also impact the astronauts in space. As NASA prepares to send humans to the Moon and beyond, it is important to know the hazards of CMEs and how to safeguard the astronauts. They can also speed up charged particles and mix magnetic fields, which can prove dangerous to astronauts and satellites. The telescopes in orbit and on Earth can also be impacted.&nbsp;

NASA has shared a video and photo of solar winds flowing through the Sun's corona from an extremely close distance. Coronal Mass Ejections impact Earth and other planets, and can prove dangerous to astronauts. Parker probe findings can heko understand Sun’s influence across the solar system.

NASA’s Parker Solar Probe has taken the closest images ever from the Sun, capturing eerie waves just 3.8 million miles from the solar surface. These photos show the Sun in a new light and can help scientists better understand the Sun’s influence across the solar system. The new images will also offer insights into events that affect Earth. The shots show solar wind flowing through our star's atmosphere. “Parker Solar Probe has once again transported us into the dynamic atmosphere of our closest star,” Nicky Fox, associate administrator, Science Mission Directorate at NASA Headquarters in Washington, said. “We are witnessing where space weather threats to Earth begin, with our eyes, not just with models." He added that the latest data can help "improve our space weather predictions to ensure the safety of our astronauts and the protection of our technology here on Earth and throughout the solar system." Also Read: Earth is unknowingly sending signals into space revealing our location to aliens Watch the Parker Solar Probe video here

NASA has shared a video and photo of solar winds flowing through the Sun's corona from an extremely close distance. Coronal Mass Ejections impact Earth and other planets, and can prove dangerous to astronauts. Parker probe findings can heko understand Sun’s influence across the solar system.

NASA Parker probe captures solar winds flowing through Sun's corona in eerie video. Watch

Donald Trump's cost-cutting spree continues as his administration is preparing to let go of over 2,000 NASA staff members. According to reports, the layoffs include several senior members whose invaluable experience was a boon for the space agency. A total of 2,145 employees will reportedly be asked to go. This includes those in senior-level government ranks. The method of cutting them out would include early retirement, buyouts, and deferred resignations. Of the total number, 1,818 of these NASA staff members work in core mission areas like science and human space flight. All the others in the list are in support roles, such as information technology (IT). This has left several people questioning the Trump administration and how it would affect NASA in view of the upcoming space missions. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/sound-of-the-big-bang-suggests-earth-is-inside-a-2-billion-light-year-wide-void-1752058450698">2-billion-light-year-wide cosmic void cocoons Earth and even the Milky Way</a>&nbsp;The Trump administration has already announced proposed budget cuts for 2026 for NASA, hitting dozens of science programs and missions. The one most likely to suffer would be the Artemis mission that plans to land humans on the Moon again after over 50 years. Earlier reports suggest that Trump plans on cutting a whopping 50 per cent of NASA's science budget. The Planetary Society feared at the time that this would mean massive layoffs, a fear that could soon come true. To avert a potential disaster, the group had supporters sign a letter which was sent to the White House, asking them not to go ahead with budget cuts. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/earth-is-unknowingly-sending-signals-to-alien-civilisations-200-light-years-away-1752059769260">Earth is unknowingly sending signals into space revealing our location to aliens</a>&nbsp;<h2>‘Extinction-level event for NASA’</h2>It also turned to social media to save the day for NASA. The society wrote on X, "This would be nothing short of an extinction-level event for NASA's science and exploration, losing that much money, that fast, would force NASA to make so many terrible decisions." The video pointed out that if NASA's budget is cut, it would mean the cancellation of several missions to space. "You like missions to Venus? Too bad, they're gone. What about missions to Mars? Deep space? The sun? Earth? Anywhere? Active missions that are producing science right now? Too bad. Those are probably gone too."&nbsp;Former chiefs of NASA's science Mission Directorate warned last week that is NASA's budgets are cut, it could put China in the pole position in space missions. Seven of them also signed a joint letter calling out the White House's proposed 47 per cent budget cuts. The letter states, "The economics of these proposed cuts ignore a fundamental truth: investments in NASA science have been and are a powerful driver of the U.S. economy and technological leadership."

NASA could be forced to lay off over 2,000 people because of the budget cuts in 2026. Donald Trump isn't interested in funding the space agency and has already announced a massive pullback in terms of money for NASA, affecting several space missions.

Donald Trump's cost-cutting spree continues as his administration is preparing to let go of over 2,000 NASA staff members. According to reports, the layoffs include several senior members whose invaluable experience was a boon for the space agency. A total of 2,145 employees will reportedly be asked to go. This includes those in senior-level government ranks. The method of cutting them out would include early retirement, buyouts, and deferred resignations. Of the total number, 1,818 of these NASA staff members work in core mission areas like science and human space flight. All the others in the list are in support roles, such as information technology (IT). This has left several people questioning the Trump administration and how it would affect NASA in view of the upcoming space missions. Also Read: 2-billion-light-year-wide cosmic void cocoons Earth and even the Milky Way The Trump administration has already announced proposed budget cuts for 2026 for NASA, hitting dozens of science programs and missions. The one most likely to suffer would be the Artemis mission that plans to land humans on the Moon again after over 50 years. Earlier reports suggest that Trump plans on cutting a whopping 50 per cent of NASA's science budget. The Planetary Society feared at the time that this would mean massive layoffs, a fear that could soon come true. To avert a potential disaster, the group had supporters sign a letter which was sent to the White House, asking them not to go ahead with budget cuts. Also Read: Earth is unknowingly sending signals into space revealing our location to aliens ‘Extinction-level event for NASA’ It also turned to social media to save the day for NASA. The society wrote on X, "This would be nothing short of an extinction-level event for NASA's science and exploration, losing that much money, that fast, would force NASA to make so many terrible decisions." The video pointed out that if NASA's budget is cut, it would mean the cancellation of several missions to space. "You like missions to Venus? Too bad, they're gone. What about missions to Mars? Deep space? The sun? Earth? Anywhere? Active missions that are producing science right now? Too bad. Those are probably gone too." Former chiefs of NASA's science Mission Directorate warned last week that is NASA's budgets are cut, it could put China in the pole position in space missions. Seven of them also signed a joint letter calling out the White House's proposed 47 per cent budget cuts. The letter states, "The economics of these proposed cuts ignore a fundamental truth: investments in NASA science have been and are a powerful driver of the U.S. economy and technological leadership."

NASA could be forced to lay off over 2,000 people because of the budget cuts in 2026. Donald Trump isn't interested in funding the space agency and has already announced a massive pullback in terms of money for NASA, affecting several space missions.

NASA prepares for a crisis as over 2,000 employees could be let go of soon: Report

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday appointed Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy as the interim administrator of NASA. The announcement was made by Trump on his Truth Social platform, calling him "a fantastic leader of the ever more important Space Agency, even if only for a short period." This role has remained vacant since Trump withdrew the nomination of tech billionaire Jared Isaacman.The nomination of Jared Isaacman was withdrawn by Trump in May 2025, citing a review of his “prior associations.” Now, Sean Duffy, will take over the post that has been in the limelight following Trump's feud with billionaire Elon Musk, who backed Isaacman.<h3>Who is Sean Duffy?</h3>A former Republican congressman from Hayward, Wisconsin, Sean Duffy's background also includes being a lumberjack, athlete, reality TV star, prosecutor, and Fox News host. He holds a degree in marketing from St. Mary’s University and a J.D. degree from William Mitchell College of Law, according to a report on the website of the US Department of Transportation.His journey in television started when he was in his twenties with the MTV reality TV show, “The Real World”. He was also cast on the show: “Road Rules All Stars,” where he met his better half, 'Rachel Campos-Duffy'. They have been married for 25 years and are currently America’s first and longest-married reality TV couple with nine children together.Duffy was the District Attorney of Ashland County, Wisconsin, for ten years before serving in Congress. He won the election from the tea party wave in 2010. During his first candidacy for Congress, Duffy was considered an underdog. However, he managed to grab the attention of the entire state with his campaign ads. During the campaign, he told voters that he came from a “long line of lumberjacks” and would bring his axe to Washington.Duffy spent nearly nine years in the House of Representatives, where he served on the Financial Services Committee and chaired its subcommittee on insurance and housing. After stepping down from Congress in 2019, he joined Fox News as a contributor and became one of Donald Trump's most prominent supporters on cable TV, co-hosting the Fox Business show The Bottom Line with Dagen and Duffy.He is among several Fox figures tapped by Trump for key roles in his Cabinet, including Pete Hegseth, now serving as defence secretary. Duffy is a father of nine, with his youngest child born with a heart condition.This comes amid reports that the administration is preparing to reduce NASA’s senior workforce by over 2,100 through early retirements, buyouts, and postponed resignations, in line with Trump’s recent announcement. &nbsp;

After stepping down from Congress in 2019, he joined Fox News as a contributor and became one of Donald Trump's most prominent supporters on cable TV, co-hosting the Fox Business show The Bottom Line with Dagen and Duffy.

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday appointed Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy as the interim administrator of NASA. The announcement was made by Trump on his Truth Social platform, calling him "a fantastic leader of the ever more important Space Agency, even if only for a short period." This role has remained vacant since Trump withdrew the nomination of tech billionaire Jared Isaacman. The nomination of Jared Isaacman was withdrawn by Trump in May 2025, citing a review of his “prior associations.” Now, Sean Duffy, will take over the post that has been in the limelight following Trump's feud with billionaire Elon Musk, who backed Isaacman. Who is Sean Duffy? A former Republican congressman from Hayward, Wisconsin, Sean Duffy's background also includes being a lumberjack, athlete, reality TV star, prosecutor, and Fox News host. He holds a degree in marketing from St. Mary’s University and a J.D. degree from William Mitchell College of Law, according to a report on the website of the US Department of Transportation. His journey in television started when he was in his twenties with the MTV reality TV show, “The Real World”. He was also cast on the show: “Road Rules All Stars,” where he met his better half, 'Rachel Campos-Duffy'. They have been married for 25 years and are currently America’s first and longest-married reality TV couple with nine children together. Duffy was the District Attorney of Ashland County, Wisconsin, for ten years before serving in Congress. He won the election from the tea party wave in 2010. During his first candidacy for Congress, Duffy was considered an underdog. However, he managed to grab the attention of the entire state with his campaign ads. During the campaign, he told voters that he came from a “long line of lumberjacks” and would bring his axe to Washington. Duffy spent nearly nine years in the House of Representatives, where he served on the Financial Services Committee and chaired its subcommittee on insurance and housing. After stepping down from Congress in 2019, he joined Fox News as a contributor and became one of Donald Trump's most prominent supporters on cable TV, co-hosting the Fox Business show The Bottom Line with Dagen and Duffy. He is among several Fox figures tapped by Trump for key roles in his Cabinet, including Pete Hegseth, now serving as defence secretary. Duffy is a father of nine, with his youngest child born with a heart condition. This comes amid reports that the administration is preparing to reduce NASA’s senior workforce by over 2,100 through early retirements, buyouts, and postponed resignations, in line with Trump’s recent announcement.

After stepping down from Congress in 2019, he joined Fox News as a contributor and became one of Donald Trump's most prominent supporters on cable TV, co-hosting the Fox Business show The Bottom Line with Dagen and Duffy.

From reality TV to rocket science: Sean Duffy appointed as interim NASA administrator. Who is he?

Between the 1940s and 1960s, several animals made pioneering spaceflights, laying the groundwork for human exploration. 

Between the 1940s and 1960s, several animals made pioneering spaceflights, laying the groundwork for human exploration.&nbsp;

7 animals that went to space before humans, what did they teach us?

Scientists have discovered a "super-Earth" that can potentially support life. The exoplanet, if it can support life, can accommodate Earth's population and more, as it is nearly twice as big and is four times more massive than our blue planet. This super-Earth has been designated as TOI-1846 b and is estimated to be around 7.2 billion years old. It is located about 154 light-years away from our planet and has been discovered by a team of astronomers using NASA's Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS).<h2>All we know about super-earth TOI-1846 b</h2>The team of astronomers that discovered TOI-1846 b was led by Abderahmane Soubkiou of the Oukaimeden Observatory in Morocco. They have published their research on the arXiv preprint server. "We have validated TOI-1846 b using TESS and multicolour ground-based photometric data, high-resolution imaging, and spectroscopic observations," the researchers wrote in their paper.According to their findings, the exoplanet boasts a radius of around 1.792 Earth radii and is about 4.4 times more massive than our planet Earth. When compared to the Sun, this planet is only 40 per cent the size, while its mass is approximately 0.42 the solar mass. Just like Earth revolves around the Sun, this newly discovered super-Earth also orbits a host. However, its orbit is completed in 3.93 Earth days.<h2>Is TOI-1846 b habitable?</h2>According to the study, the planet's equilibrium temperature is around 568.1 K (or around 294.95). This is almost double the Earth's equilibrium temperature of 255 K, which means that the temperature may not be conducive to life. However, the planet, as per the research, is likely water-rich, which is a plus point for it being suitable for life. However, to accurately rule it as a habitable or non-habitable planet, scientists will first have to conduct radial velocity (RV) observations of TOI-1846 b to unveil the planet's composition. "These findings make TOI-1846 b well-suited for mass determination via RV observations. This could be possible with the MAROON-X instrument. (...) We find a TSM [transmission spectroscopy metric] of 47 for TOI-1846 b, which is below the 90 benchmark for small sub-Neptunes," wrote the paper's authors. &nbsp;

TOI-1846 b is estimated to be around 7.2 billion years old and is located about 154 light-years away from our planet and has been discovered by a team of astronomers using NASA's Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS).

Scientists have discovered a "super-Earth" that can potentially support life. The exoplanet, if it can support life, can accommodate Earth's population and more, as it is nearly twice as big and is four times more massive than our blue planet. This super-Earth has been designated as TOI-1846 b and is estimated to be around 7.2 billion years old. It is located about 154 light-years away from our planet and has been discovered by a team of astronomers using NASA's Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS). All we know about super-earth TOI-1846 b The team of astronomers that discovered TOI-1846 b was led by Abderahmane Soubkiou of the Oukaimeden Observatory in Morocco. They have published their research on the arXiv preprint server. "We have validated TOI-1846 b using TESS and multicolour ground-based photometric data, high-resolution imaging, and spectroscopic observations," the researchers wrote in their paper. According to their findings, the exoplanet boasts a radius of around 1.792 Earth radii and is about 4.4 times more massive than our planet Earth. When compared to the Sun, this planet is only 40 per cent the size, while its mass is approximately 0.42 the solar mass. Just like Earth revolves around the Sun, this newly discovered super-Earth also orbits a host. However, its orbit is completed in 3.93 Earth days. Is TOI-1846 b habitable? According to the study, the planet's equilibrium temperature is around 568.1 K (or around 294.95). This is almost double the Earth's equilibrium temperature of 255 K, which means that the temperature may not be conducive to life. However, the planet, as per the research, is likely water-rich, which is a plus point for it being suitable for life. However, to accurately rule it as a habitable or non-habitable planet, scientists will first have to conduct radial velocity (RV) observations of TOI-1846 b to unveil the planet's composition. "These findings make TOI-1846 b well-suited for mass determination via RV observations. This could be possible with the MAROON-X instrument. (...) We find a TSM [transmission spectroscopy metric] of 47 for TOI-1846 b, which is below the 90 benchmark for small sub-Neptunes," wrote the paper's authors.

TOI-1846 b is estimated to be around 7.2 billion years old and is located about 154 light-years away from our planet and has been discovered by a team of astronomers using NASA's Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS).

Scientists use NASA's TESS to discover ‘super-earth’ that could host billions—Is TOI-1846 b humanity's next home?

 To date, 636 people have travelled to space, with women comprising just over 11 per cent of that total. 

&nbsp;To date, 636 people have travelled to space, with women comprising just over 11 per cent of that total.&nbsp;

From NASA's Neil Armstrong to Rakesh Sharma: 7 legendary astronauts who redefined space exploration

How exactly do astronauts actually eat and defecate in microgravity? Here's a factual look at how these essential routines are managed hundreds of kilometres above Earth.

How exactly do astronauts actually eat and defecate in microgravity? Here's a factual look at how these essential routines are managed hundreds of kilometres above Earth.

How do astronauts eat and defecate in space? The science behind daily life on the ISS

With no access to resupply missions during extended stays, how astronauts access and recycle water has become a triumph of modern engineering, and a crucial step for future deep space missions.

With no access to resupply missions during extended stays, how astronauts access and recycle water has become a triumph of modern engineering, and a crucial step for future deep space missions.

Cleaner than bottled water? The science behind astronauts sipping purified urine in space

The planet, roughly the same size as Jupiter, lies extremely close to its host star, creating intense gravitational and magnetic interactions. It is living fast and may die young. 

The planet, roughly the same size as Jupiter, lies extremely close to its host star, creating intense gravitational and magnetic interactions. It is living fast and may die young.&nbsp;

Newly discovered planet completes one year in seven Earth days — and scientists say it’s on a death spiral

There are around 12,952 satellites currently orbiting Earth, according to the reports. These satellites are placed in different types of orbits such as Low Earth Orbit, Medium Earth Orbit and Geostationary Orbit. Here's a look at top ten countries with highest number of satellites in space.

There are around 12,952 satellites currently orbiting Earth, according to the reports. These satellites are placed in different types of orbits such as Low Earth Orbit, Medium Earth Orbit and Geostationary Orbit. Here's a look at top ten countries with highest number of satellites in space.

Top 10 countries with highest number of satellites in space (2025)

From Earth observation, lunar landers, to Mars missions, the world's leading space research agencies, NASA, ISRO, ESA, and private companies are gearing up for an ambitious and action-packed space exploration. Here are the top 10 space projects to expect in 2025 and beyond.

From Earth observation, lunar landers, to Mars missions, the world's leading space research agencies, NASA, ISRO, ESA, and private companies are gearing up for an ambitious and action-packed space exploration. Here are the top 10 space projects to expect in 2025 and beyond.&nbsp;

From NASA to ISRO: Who’s exploring what? Here are the top 10 space missions of 2025 and beyond

NASA has officially assigned astronaut Dr Anil Menon to his inaugural spaceflight mission aboard the International Space Station (ISS). Menon will serve as a flight engineer and a core member of Expedition 75. He is scheduled to launch in June 2026 on the Roscosmos Soyuz MS-29 spacecraft, accompanied by Russian cosmonauts Pyotr Dubrov and Anna Kikina. Menon will be the first Indian‑American NASA astronaut to follow directly after Sunita Williams since her last flight. The mission will lift off from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan, with the crew expected to live and work on the station for approximately eight months.&nbsp;During the expedition, Menon will contribute to a broad range of scientific investigations and technology demonstrations. These activities are designed to advance human understanding of spaceflight, improve life on Earth, and support NASA’s ambitions for long-duration missions to the Moon and Mars. Menon was selected as a NASA astronaut in 2021 and completed his training as part of NASA’s 23rd astronaut class in 2024. Following his graduation, he began preparations for his first spaceflight assignment, including technical briefings, mission simulations, and physical conditioning for long-duration space travel.<h3>Who Is Anil Menon?</h3>Dr Anil Menon is a physician, mechanical engineer, and colonel in the United States Space Force. He was born and raised in Minneapolis, Minnesota, to Indian and Ukrainian immigrant parents. Menon holds a unique combination of academic, medical, and aerospace experience that distinguishes him within the NASA astronaut corps.He earned a bachelor’s degree in neurobiology from Harvard University, followed by a master’s degree in mechanical engineering and a Doctor of Medicine (MD) from Stanford University. He went on to complete residencies in both emergency medicine and aerospace medicine at Stanford University and the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston.&nbsp;Before becoming an astronaut, Menon made significant contributions to both the medical and aerospace communities. He served as SpaceX’s first flight surgeon, where he helped oversee the historic NASA-SpaceX Demo-2 mission — the first crewed flight of the Dragon spacecraft. He played a central role in establishing SpaceX’s human spaceflight medical program and supported NASA and SpaceX missions as a crew flight surgeon. Despite his demanding schedule, Menon continues to practice emergency medicine at Memorial Hermann’s Texas Medical Center and teaches residents in the University of Texas medical residency program, further demonstrating his commitment to both medicine and mentorship.&nbsp;Menon’s assignment to Expedition 75 underscores NASA’s continued investment in international collaboration and the development of the next generation of explorers. His journey to the ISS will support crucial research that underpins future missions under NASA’s Artemis campaign and its long-term goal of human exploration of Mars. As the International Space Station marks nearly a quarter-century of continuous human presence in space, Menon’s upcoming mission reflects both the enduring legacy of space exploration and its promising future.

Anil Menon, an Indian-American astronaut with NASA, has been assigned to his first space mission and will serve as a flight engineer on Expedition 75 aboard the International Space Station (ISS). The mission is scheduled to launch in June 2026 on Russia’s Soyuz MS-29 spacecraft.

NASA has officially assigned astronaut Dr Anil Menon to his inaugural spaceflight mission aboard the International Space Station (ISS). Menon will serve as a flight engineer and a core member of Expedition 75. He is scheduled to launch in June 2026 on the Roscosmos Soyuz MS-29 spacecraft, accompanied by Russian cosmonauts Pyotr Dubrov and Anna Kikina. Menon will be the first Indian‑American NASA astronaut to follow directly after Sunita Williams since her last flight. The mission will lift off from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan, with the crew expected to live and work on the station for approximately eight months. During the expedition, Menon will contribute to a broad range of scientific investigations and technology demonstrations. These activities are designed to advance human understanding of spaceflight, improve life on Earth, and support NASA’s ambitions for long-duration missions to the Moon and Mars. Menon was selected as a NASA astronaut in 2021 and completed his training as part of NASA’s 23rd astronaut class in 2024. Following his graduation, he began preparations for his first spaceflight assignment, including technical briefings, mission simulations, and physical conditioning for long-duration space travel. Who Is Anil Menon? Dr Anil Menon is a physician, mechanical engineer, and colonel in the United States Space Force. He was born and raised in Minneapolis, Minnesota, to Indian and Ukrainian immigrant parents. Menon holds a unique combination of academic, medical, and aerospace experience that distinguishes him within the NASA astronaut corps.He earned a bachelor’s degree in neurobiology from Harvard University, followed by a master’s degree in mechanical engineering and a Doctor of Medicine (MD) from Stanford University. He went on to complete residencies in both emergency medicine and aerospace medicine at Stanford University and the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston. Before becoming an astronaut, Menon made significant contributions to both the medical and aerospace communities. He served as SpaceX’s first flight surgeon, where he helped oversee the historic NASA-SpaceX Demo-2 mission — the first crewed flight of the Dragon spacecraft. He played a central role in establishing SpaceX’s human spaceflight medical program and supported NASA and SpaceX missions as a crew flight surgeon. Despite his demanding schedule, Menon continues to practice emergency medicine at Memorial Hermann’s Texas Medical Center and teaches residents in the University of Texas medical residency program, further demonstrating his commitment to both medicine and mentorship. Menon’s assignment to Expedition 75 underscores NASA’s continued investment in international collaboration and the development of the next generation of explorers. His journey to the ISS will support crucial research that underpins future missions under NASA’s Artemis campaign and its long-term goal of human exploration of Mars. As the International Space Station marks nearly a quarter-century of continuous human presence in space, Menon’s upcoming mission reflects both the enduring legacy of space exploration and its promising future.

Anil Menon, an Indian-American astronaut with NASA, has been assigned to his first space mission and will serve as a flight engineer on Expedition 75 aboard the International Space Station (ISS). The mission is scheduled to launch in June 2026 on Russia’s Soyuz MS-29 spacecraft.

Meet Anil Menon - Indian-Origin NASA astronaut assigned to first International Space Station mission: WHEN will the journey begin?

In the next seven years, Earth will have a close shave with two asteroids - Apophis and Asteroid YR4 2024. In 2029, 99942 Apophis will fly by at an eerily close distance and will be visible even to the naked eye. In 2032, YR4 2024 will also come near our planet, although it is estimated to hit our Moon. This event will generate so much debris that meteorites will come shooting towards Earth, possibly damaging satellites and even the space station. Both asteroids posed a massive scare right after being observed. When scientists discovered them, they were both on a trajectory that could have led them to crash into Earth. However, the latest calculations suggest that this might not happen after all.&nbsp;<h2>Dinosaur killer asteroids visit every 10 million to 100 million years</h2>&nbsp;However, even though Earth is predicted to have a close shave with the asteroids, is there a probability that a major disaster might still occur? An asteroid killed the dinosaurs 65 million years ago. Could the next strike be around the corner? According to Chris Lintott, a professor of astrophysics at the University of Oxford, "there’s one of these every 10 million to 100 million years".&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/the-world-s-largest-space-telescope-finds-2-100-new-asteroids-know-what-else-it-can-do-1751037636501">The world’s largest space telescope finds 2,100 new asteroids. Know what else it can do</a>&nbsp;He told the Guardian that it might just be about "being in the wrong place at the wrong time." He said, “Most asteroids in the solar system exist in the asteroid belt, which is between Mars and Jupiter, but they become disrupted, usually by encounters with either of those planets, and they can move into orbits that cross the Earth.”&nbsp;<h2>Four known asteroids same as dino-killer&nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;Coming to an asteroid similar to the one that killed the dinosaurs, Colin Snodgrass, a professor of planetary astronomy at the University of Edinburgh, says, that it happens “not very often, but it is something that happens." However, he is hopeful that humans could potentially do something about them. He adds that there are four asteroids that fit into the category of "dino-killer space rock", but they are not anywhere near Earth.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/what-are-asteroids-really-made-of-rocks-metals-or-something-more-1751275110472">What are asteroids really made of: Rocks, metals or something more?</a>&nbsp;However, the smaller ones could be equally dangerous. For example, in Chelyabinsk, Russia, an asteroid the size of a house, around 20 metres across, exploded with the force of nearly 30 Hiroshima bombs. It caused extensive damage and injured hundreds of people. In the past 20 years, at least 556 asteroids and meteors have crashed into Earth. Recently, a meteor was seen over the southeastern United States and reportedly crashed into a house, breaking its roof and smashing the floor.&nbsp;<h2>Asteroid impact with Moon can shoot meteorites towards Earth</h2>&nbsp;Asteroid YR4 2024 had a 3.1 per cent chance of hitting Earth in 2032 after it was discovered earlier this year. Dubbed the "city-killer", the asteroid is not expected to hit Earth. However, it will crash into the Moon, as the probability of that happening has been increased to 4.3 per cent. If this happens, then a 174ft-220ft asteroid impact will generate 100,000,000 kilograms of debris that can come hurtling towards Earth. The meteorites can damage satellites, the International Space Station and endanger astronauts.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/venus-asteroids-earth-nuclear-bomb-nasa-warning-1748417986834">Evil twin? Venus sheltering 'invisible' asteroids that can wipe off humanity with a minuscule change in course</a>&nbsp;So, there is a need to be prepared to tackle such a scenario. Besides, Apophis's close flyby also needs to be monitored. Scientists are watching for these asteroids regularly. A study revealed that Venus could be hiding several such rocks that we still cannot see. The recently unveiled Vera C Rubin Observatory in Chile found seven asteroids humans had not seen before that will come dangerously close to Earth. NASA and the European Space Agency have missions in the pipeline that will detect "asteroids and comets that may be potential hazards to Earth."&nbsp;Meanwhile, the 2022 DART mission showed humans are capable of breaking apart an asteroid right from Earth. A small spacecraft crashed into Dimorphos, an asteroid that orbits a larger rock called Didymos. It was a success as the space rock broke apart, changing its shape and releasing so much debris that we might soon have a Didymos meteor shower.&nbsp;

Can an asteroid, or two asteroids, crash into Earth in the next seven years? Scientists are observing these space rocks to learn more about them. One of them could send tonnes of meteorites towards Earth, damaging the ISS, satellites and threatening astronauts. 

In the next seven years, Earth will have a close shave with two asteroids - Apophis and Asteroid YR4 2024. In 2029, 99942 Apophis will fly by at an eerily close distance and will be visible even to the naked eye. In 2032, YR4 2024 will also come near our planet, although it is estimated to hit our Moon. This event will generate so much debris that meteorites will come shooting towards Earth, possibly damaging satellites and even the space station. Both asteroids posed a massive scare right after being observed. When scientists discovered them, they were both on a trajectory that could have led them to crash into Earth. However, the latest calculations suggest that this might not happen after all. Dinosaur killer asteroids visit every 10 million to 100 million years However, even though Earth is predicted to have a close shave with the asteroids, is there a probability that a major disaster might still occur? An asteroid killed the dinosaurs 65 million years ago. Could the next strike be around the corner? According to Chris Lintott, a professor of astrophysics at the University of Oxford, "there’s one of these every 10 million to 100 million years". Also Read: The world’s largest space telescope finds 2,100 new asteroids. Know what else it can do He told the Guardian that it might just be about "being in the wrong place at the wrong time." He said, “Most asteroids in the solar system exist in the asteroid belt, which is between Mars and Jupiter, but they become disrupted, usually by encounters with either of those planets, and they can move into orbits that cross the Earth.” Four known asteroids same as dino-killer Coming to an asteroid similar to the one that killed the dinosaurs, Colin Snodgrass, a professor of planetary astronomy at the University of Edinburgh, says, that it happens “not very often, but it is something that happens." However, he is hopeful that humans could potentially do something about them. He adds that there are four asteroids that fit into the category of "dino-killer space rock", but they are not anywhere near Earth. Also Read: What are asteroids really made of: Rocks, metals or something more? However, the smaller ones could be equally dangerous. For example, in Chelyabinsk, Russia, an asteroid the size of a house, around 20 metres across, exploded with the force of nearly 30 Hiroshima bombs. It caused extensive damage and injured hundreds of people. In the past 20 years, at least 556 asteroids and meteors have crashed into Earth. Recently, a meteor was seen over the southeastern United States and reportedly crashed into a house, breaking its roof and smashing the floor. Asteroid impact with Moon can shoot meteorites towards Earth Asteroid YR4 2024 had a 3.1 per cent chance of hitting Earth in 2032 after it was discovered earlier this year. Dubbed the "city-killer", the asteroid is not expected to hit Earth. However, it will crash into the Moon, as the probability of that happening has been increased to 4.3 per cent. If this happens, then a 174ft-220ft asteroid impact will generate 100,000,000 kilograms of debris that can come hurtling towards Earth. The meteorites can damage satellites, the International Space Station and endanger astronauts. Also Read: Evil twin? Venus sheltering 'invisible' asteroids that can wipe off humanity with a minuscule change in course So, there is a need to be prepared to tackle such a scenario. Besides, Apophis's close flyby also needs to be monitored. Scientists are watching for these asteroids regularly. A study revealed that Venus could be hiding several such rocks that we still cannot see. The recently unveiled Vera C Rubin Observatory in Chile found seven asteroids humans had not seen before that will come dangerously close to Earth. NASA and the European Space Agency have missions in the pipeline that will detect "asteroids and comets that may be potential hazards to Earth." Meanwhile, the 2022 DART mission showed humans are capable of breaking apart an asteroid right from Earth. A small spacecraft crashed into Dimorphos, an asteroid that orbits a larger rock called Didymos. It was a success as the space rock broke apart, changing its shape and releasing so much debris that we might soon have a Didymos meteor shower.

Can an asteroid, or two asteroids, crash into Earth in the next seven years? Scientists are observing these space rocks to learn more about them. One of them could send tonnes of meteorites towards Earth, damaging the ISS, satellites and threatening astronauts.&nbsp;

City killer asteroid can shoot meteorites like bullets at Earth in 2032. Who is at risk?

Despite meticulous engineering and rigorous protocols, several missions have ended in tragedy. This list examines seven of the most serious accidents and disasters in the history of space exploration.

Despite meticulous engineering and rigorous protocols, several missions have ended in tragedy. This list examines seven of the most serious accidents and disasters in the history of space exploration.

Apollo, Columbia, Challenger: The 7 deadliest spaceflight accidents that changed history

A series of upcoming missions will further strengthen international collaboration, scientific ambition, and commercial capabilities in the space sector.

A series of upcoming missions will further strengthen international collaboration, scientific ambition, and commercial capabilities in the space sector.

After Axiom-4: 7 defining space missions set to take place in 2025 and beyond

Asteroids are small rocky bodies that travel around the Sun. They are much smaller than planets. They are very important because they can give us clues about the early composition of the Solar System. Unlike planets and moons which have changed a lot due to volcanic activity, erosion or earthquakes many asteroids have stayed the same for billions of years. By examining them scientists can learn about the original materials that formed planets, including Earth and how our Solar System has changed over time.&nbsp;Some asteroids like Ceres, are so large that they are classified as dwarf planets. Asteroids are usually grouped into three main types based on what they are made of: C-type, S-type and M-type.&nbsp;C-type Asteroids (Carbon-rich)C-type asteroids are the most common asteriods and are dark in color and contain clay, silicate rocks and organic carbon while some also have water ice. These asteroids are mostly found in the outer part of the asteroid belt. A well-known C-type asteroid is Bennu, which was studied by NASA’s OSIRIS-REx mission.&nbsp;S-type Asteroids (Stony)S-type asteroids are the second most common type. They are made mostly of rock and metals like nickel and iron. These materials are similar to what is found in the crust and mantle of Earth and other rocky planets. Most S-types are found in the inner part of the asteroid belt. A famous example is Eros, one of the largest asteroid near earth.&nbsp;M-type Asteroids (Metal-rich)M-type asteroids are mostly made of iron and nickel. Some may be pieces of larger bodies that were broken apart in early space collisions. Others may have formed closer to the Sun where high heat caused metal to melt and settle in the center. These asteroids are believed to be the source of metallic meteorites. One important M-type asteroid is Psyche, which NASA is currently exploring with a space mission to learn more about its origin.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Asteroids are usually grouped into three main types based on what they are made of: C-type, S-type and M-type.

Asteroids are small rocky bodies that travel around the Sun. They are much smaller than planets. They are very important because they can give us clues about the early composition of the Solar System. Unlike planets and moons which have changed a lot due to volcanic activity, erosion or earthquakes many asteroids have stayed the same for billions of years. By examining them scientists can learn about the original materials that formed planets, including Earth and how our Solar System has changed over time. Some asteroids like Ceres, are so large that they are classified as dwarf planets. Asteroids are usually grouped into three main types based on what they are made of: C-type, S-type and M-type. C-type Asteroids (Carbon-rich) C-type asteroids are the most common asteriods and are dark in color and contain clay, silicate rocks and organic carbon while some also have water ice. These asteroids are mostly found in the outer part of the asteroid belt. A well-known C-type asteroid is Bennu, which was studied by NASA’s OSIRIS-REx mission. S-type Asteroids (Stony) S-type asteroids are the second most common type. They are made mostly of rock and metals like nickel and iron. These materials are similar to what is found in the crust and mantle of Earth and other rocky planets. Most S-types are found in the inner part of the asteroid belt. A famous example is Eros, one of the largest asteroid near earth. M-type Asteroids (Metal-rich) M-type asteroids are mostly made of iron and nickel. Some may be pieces of larger bodies that were broken apart in early space collisions. Others may have formed closer to the Sun where high heat caused metal to melt and settle in the center. These asteroids are believed to be the source of metallic meteorites. One important M-type asteroid is Psyche, which NASA is currently exploring with a space mission to learn more about its origin.

Asteroids are usually grouped into three main types based on what they are made of: C-type, S-type and M-type.

What are asteroids really made of: Rocks, metals or something more?

The Space Shuttle programme, developed by NASA, introduced the world’s first reusable spacecraft. Operating from 1981 to 2011, the shuttles carried out 135 missions, completing over 21,000 orbits and covering more than 542 million miles. The fleet was used to transport satellites, conduct research, support space station assembly, and enable spacewalks.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>Evolution of the Space Shuttle Fleet</h2>NASA built five operational orbiters: Columbia, Challenger, Discovery, Atlantis, and Endeavour. Each measured 37.2 metres in length, had a wingspan of 23.8 metres, and launch mass ranging between 104 and 109 tonnes. A sixth shuttle, Enterprise, was used only for test flights and did not go into orbit. The Soviet-built Buran orbiter, measuring 36.4 metres long and weighing 105 tonnes, flew a single automated mission in 1988 and remains one of the largest spacecraft constructed outside the United States.&nbsp;Columbia, launched in April 1981, was NASA’s first operational orbiter. It was also the heaviest, weighing 109 tonnes due to early design elements and limited ISS compatibility. It deployed key payloads like the Chandra X-ray Observatory. It was tragically lost in 2003 during re-entry after sustaining wing damage from launch debris. Astronaut Kalpana Chawla was among those lost in the Columbia disaster.&nbsp;Challenger entered service in 1983 and conducted several pioneering missions, including the deployment of the first Tracking and Data Relay Satellite. It also hosted the first spacewalk by a US woman. On January 28, 1986, Challenger broke apart 73 seconds after liftoff, following a booster failure. All seven crew members were lost.&nbsp;Discovery, arriving in 1983, became NASA’s most flown orbiter with 39 missions. It deployed the Hubble Space Telescope and played a vital role in ISS construction. Lighter than Columbia, Discovery incorporated improved thermal protection and structure refinements. It retired in 2011 after completing the final shuttle flight to the ISS.&nbsp;Atlantis, which joined the fleet in 1985, completed 33 missions and was instrumental in both ISS assembly and the Shuttle-Mir programme, becoming the first shuttle to dock with a Russian space station. Its construction was completed faster and with fewer resources than Columbia.&nbsp;&nbsp;Endeavour, commissioned in 1991 to replace Challenger, carried out 25 missions. Its notable flights included satellite repairs and spacewalks, including a record-setting eight-hour EVA. It also introduced new technical features, such as the use of a drag chute on landing.&nbsp;The Buran orbiter, developed by the Soviet Union, was similar in design and size to the American shuttle. It completed its only mission without a crew in 1988, operating entirely on automated systems. Though the programme was cancelled, Buran demonstrated comparable capabilities in terms of payload and flight systems, adding to the global legacy of reusable spacecraft.&nbsp;NASA's Space Shuttle programme officially ended in 2011, after 30 years of service. The final mission, STS-135, was flown by Atlantis and concluded on 21 July 2011. Since then, the shuttle fleet—Columbia, Challenger, Discovery, Atlantis, and Endeavour—has been retired. &nbsp;

NASA's Space Shuttle programme officially ended in 2011, after 30 years of service. The final mission, STS-135, was flown by Atlantis and concluded on 21 July 2011. 

The Space Shuttle programme, developed by NASA, introduced the world’s first reusable spacecraft. Operating from 1981 to 2011, the shuttles carried out 135 missions, completing over 21,000 orbits and covering more than 542 million miles. The fleet was used to transport satellites, conduct research, support space station assembly, and enable spacewalks. Evolution of the Space Shuttle Fleet NASA built five operational orbiters: Columbia, Challenger, Discovery, Atlantis, and Endeavour. Each measured 37.2 metres in length, had a wingspan of 23.8 metres, and launch mass ranging between 104 and 109 tonnes. A sixth shuttle, Enterprise, was used only for test flights and did not go into orbit. The Soviet-built Buran orbiter, measuring 36.4 metres long and weighing 105 tonnes, flew a single automated mission in 1988 and remains one of the largest spacecraft constructed outside the United States. Columbia, launched in April 1981, was NASA’s first operational orbiter. It was also the heaviest, weighing 109 tonnes due to early design elements and limited ISS compatibility. It deployed key payloads like the Chandra X-ray Observatory. It was tragically lost in 2003 during re-entry after sustaining wing damage from launch debris. Astronaut Kalpana Chawla was among those lost in the Columbia disaster. Challenger entered service in 1983 and conducted several pioneering missions, including the deployment of the first Tracking and Data Relay Satellite. It also hosted the first spacewalk by a US woman. On January 28, 1986, Challenger broke apart 73 seconds after liftoff, following a booster failure. All seven crew members were lost. Discovery, arriving in 1983, became NASA’s most flown orbiter with 39 missions. It deployed the Hubble Space Telescope and played a vital role in ISS construction. Lighter than Columbia, Discovery incorporated improved thermal protection and structure refinements. It retired in 2011 after completing the final shuttle flight to the ISS. Atlantis, which joined the fleet in 1985, completed 33 missions and was instrumental in both ISS assembly and the Shuttle-Mir programme, becoming the first shuttle to dock with a Russian space station. Its construction was completed faster and with fewer resources than Columbia. Endeavour, commissioned in 1991 to replace Challenger, carried out 25 missions. Its notable flights included satellite repairs and spacewalks, including a record-setting eight-hour EVA. It also introduced new technical features, such as the use of a drag chute on landing. The Buran orbiter, developed by the Soviet Union, was similar in design and size to the American shuttle. It completed its only mission without a crew in 1988, operating entirely on automated systems. Though the programme was cancelled, Buran demonstrated comparable capabilities in terms of payload and flight systems, adding to the global legacy of reusable spacecraft. NASA's Space Shuttle programme officially ended in 2011, after 30 years of service. The final mission, STS-135, was flown by Atlantis and concluded on 21 July 2011. Since then, the shuttle fleet—Columbia, Challenger, Discovery, Atlantis, and Endeavour—has been retired.

NASA's Space Shuttle programme officially ended in 2011, after 30 years of service. The final mission, STS-135, was flown by Atlantis and concluded on 21 July 2011.&nbsp;

From Columbia to Discovery: The five largest NASA space shuttles in history

A team of researchers led by planetary geologist Erica Luzzi from the University of Mississippi has identified a promising location on Mars that could support future human habitation. The site, located in Amazonis Planitia, a broad volcanic plain in the planet’s mid-latitudes, may contain shallow subsurface ice, a critical resource for sustaining life.&nbsp;Using high-resolution imagery from NASA’s Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter, Luzzi’s team observed surface patterns typically associated with ground ice on Earth. Features such as bright-rimmed craters, polygonal cracks, and subtle terrain shifts indicate the likely presence of water ice less than a metre below the surface. This shallow depth could make it accessible for robotic or human-led drilling without requiring heavy infrastructure.&nbsp;“If we’re going to send humans to Mars, you need H₂O—not just for drinking, but for propellant and all manner of applications,” Dr Luzzi explained.<h2>Balancing sunlight and subsurface ice</h2>Mars' polar regions are known to contain abundant ice, but their extreme cold and limited sunlight make them unsuitable for long-term, solar-powered missions. In contrast, equatorial areas, while warmer and sunnier, tend to have ice buried too deep for easy access. Amazonis Planitia, sitting in Mars' mid-latitudes, strikes a practical balance. “The mid-latitudes offer the perfect compromise – they get enough sunlight for power, but they’re still cold enough to preserve ice near the surface,” said Luzzi.&nbsp;This discovery supports the strategy of in situ resource utilisation (ISRU), which involves using local materials to reduce the need for supplies from Earth. Transporting water from Earth would be costly and inefficient, making ISRU essential for sustainable exploration.<h2>Next steps and scientific potential</h2>While the findings are promising, further exploration is required to confirm the volume and stability of the ice. Future missions may deploy radar instruments and ground drills to measure and sample the subsurface directly. Technologies like NASA’s SHARAD radar and the upcoming Mars Ice Mapper, developed with the European Space Agency, are expected to play a key role.&nbsp;Beyond supporting life, shallow ice on Mars may also help scientists understand the planet’s history and potential for past life. Ice layers could preserve ancient atmospheric gases or organic compounds, offering clues about Mars’ evolution. &nbsp;

Using high-resolution imagery from NASA’s Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter, Luzzi’s team observed surface patterns typically associated with ground ice on Earth.

A team of researchers led by planetary geologist Erica Luzzi from the University of Mississippi has identified a promising location on Mars that could support future human habitation. The site, located in Amazonis Planitia, a broad volcanic plain in the planet’s mid-latitudes, may contain shallow subsurface ice, a critical resource for sustaining life. Using high-resolution imagery from NASA’s Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter, Luzzi’s team observed surface patterns typically associated with ground ice on Earth. Features such as bright-rimmed craters, polygonal cracks, and subtle terrain shifts indicate the likely presence of water ice less than a metre below the surface. This shallow depth could make it accessible for robotic or human-led drilling without requiring heavy infrastructure. “If we’re going to send humans to Mars, you need H₂O—not just for drinking, but for propellant and all manner of applications,” Dr Luzzi explained. Balancing sunlight and subsurface ice Mars' polar regions are known to contain abundant ice, but their extreme cold and limited sunlight make them unsuitable for long-term, solar-powered missions. In contrast, equatorial areas, while warmer and sunnier, tend to have ice buried too deep for easy access. Amazonis Planitia, sitting in Mars' mid-latitudes, strikes a practical balance. “The mid-latitudes offer the perfect compromise – they get enough sunlight for power, but they’re still cold enough to preserve ice near the surface,” said Luzzi. This discovery supports the strategy of in situ resource utilisation (ISRU), which involves using local materials to reduce the need for supplies from Earth. Transporting water from Earth would be costly and inefficient, making ISRU essential for sustainable exploration. Next steps and scientific potential While the findings are promising, further exploration is required to confirm the volume and stability of the ice. Future missions may deploy radar instruments and ground drills to measure and sample the subsurface directly. Technologies like NASA’s SHARAD radar and the upcoming Mars Ice Mapper, developed with the European Space Agency, are expected to play a key role. Beyond supporting life, shallow ice on Mars may also help scientists understand the planet’s history and potential for past life. Ice layers could preserve ancient atmospheric gases or organic compounds, offering clues about Mars’ evolution.

Using high-resolution imagery from NASA’s Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter, Luzzi’s team observed surface patterns typically associated with ground ice on Earth.

Red Planet ready for humans? Scientists locate potential settlement zone on Mars

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday held a video interaction with Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, marking a historic moment as the Indian Air Force officer became the first Indian astronaut to board the International Space Station (ISS). Shukla, serving as mission pilot on Axiom Space’s Ax-4 mission, launched from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center on June 25 aboard SpaceX’s Dragon spacecraft. The Prime Minister also shared a video of the exchange on social media platform X, calling it a ‘wonderful conversation’ and praising Shukla for his milestone achievement in India’s space journey. Highlighting the symbolic value of Shukla's name, the Prime Minister remarked that the word 'Shubh' (auspicious) in his name marks a ‘shubh-aarambh’, an auspicious beginning for a new era of space exploration and scientific aspiration for India’s youth. The conversation also included a light-hearted moment about ‘gajar ka halwa’, a traditional Indian dessert. PM Modi asked, “Did you and the other astronauts eat the gajar ka halwa there?” to which Shukla responded that they enjoyed the sweet, along with other Indian treats he had carried aboard the ISS.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">I had a wonderful conversation with Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla as he shared his experiences from the International Space Station. Watch the special interaction! <a href="https://t.co/MoMR5ozRRA">https://t.co/MoMR5ozRRA</a>&mdash; Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1938945641528643735?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 28, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;When asked about his well-being and how it felt to be in space, Shukla replied: “This journey isn’t just mine, it belongs to the entire nation. As a child, I couldn’t have imagined becoming an astronaut.”&nbsp;The Prime Minister offered heartfelt congratulations, saying, “My voice carries the collective enthusiasm of all Indians. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to you for raising India’s presence in space."&nbsp;Earlier, pictures of the interaction were shared by the Prime Minister's Office on its official X handle.&nbsp;The post read: “PM @narendramodi interacted with Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, who is aboard the International Space Station."&nbsp;During their 14-day stay on the ISS, Shukla and his Ax-4 crewmates, mission commander Peggy Whitson (USA), and specialists Slawosz Uznanski-Wisniewski (Poland) and Tibor Kapu (Hungary)—will conduct more than 60 scientific and outreach experiments. These include studies in cancer research, DNA repair, and advanced manufacturing. Shukla will lead seven of the projects, contributing to what Axiom describes as its most ambitious research agenda yet.&nbsp;The mission also highlights growing international partnerships in space. The Ax-4 mission was made possible through collaboration between NASA and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), following a commitment by US President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Modi to deepen cooperation in human spaceflight. It marks a key step in commercial space engagement and India’s expanding space diplomacy.

Highlighting the symbolic value of Shukla's name, the Prime Minister remarked that the word 'Shubh' (auspicious) in his name marks a ‘shubh-aarambh’, an auspicious beginning for a new era of space exploration and scientific aspiration for India’s youth.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday held a video interaction with Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, marking a historic moment as the Indian Air Force officer became the first Indian astronaut to board the International Space Station (ISS). Shukla, serving as mission pilot on Axiom Space’s Ax-4 mission, launched from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center on June 25 aboard SpaceX’s Dragon spacecraft. The Prime Minister also shared a video of the exchange on social media platform X, calling it a ‘wonderful conversation’ and praising Shukla for his milestone achievement in India’s space journey. Highlighting the symbolic value of Shukla's name, the Prime Minister remarked that the word 'Shubh' (auspicious) in his name marks a ‘shubh-aarambh’, an auspicious beginning for a new era of space exploration and scientific aspiration for India’s youth. The conversation also included a light-hearted moment about ‘gajar ka halwa’, a traditional Indian dessert. PM Modi asked, “Did you and the other astronauts eat the gajar ka halwa there?” to which Shukla responded that they enjoyed the sweet, along with other Indian treats he had carried aboard the ISS.

Highlighting the symbolic value of Shukla's name, the Prime Minister remarked that the word 'Shubh' (auspicious) in his name marks a ‘shubh-aarambh’, an auspicious beginning for a new era of space exploration and scientific aspiration for India’s youth.

'All well up there?': PM Modi speaks to Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla aboard the International Space Station

NASA astronauts have cumulatively spent thousands of days aboard the International Space Station (ISS), enabling critical research into the effects of long-duration space travel. Among them, seven have stood out for their exceptional time spent in orbit, shaping our understanding of human endurance and systems vital for deep space exploration. The agency maintains two key metrics: time spent on a single spaceflight and cumulative time across an astronaut’s career. While Frank Rubio holds the record for the longest single mission at 371 days, it is Peggy Whitson who leads overall with a total of 675 days in space.

<figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td><h2>List Of Astronauts:-</h2><figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Astronaut</td><td>No. of days</td></tr><tr><td>Peggy Whitson</td><td>675</td></tr><tr><td>Sunita Williams</td><td>608</td></tr><tr><td>Don Pettit</td><td>590</td></tr><tr><td>Jeff Williams</td><td>534</td></tr><tr><td>Mark Vande</td><td>523</td></tr><tr><td>Scott Kelly</td><td>520</td></tr><tr><td>Mike Barratt</td><td>447</td></tr></tbody></table></figure></td></tr></tbody></table></figure>

<h2>Leading the list: Peggy Whitson to Mark Vande Hei</h2>&nbsp;Peggy A. Whitson tops NASA’s cumulative time-in-space chart with 675 days over multiple missions, including a recent nine-day stint on the Axiom-2 mission in 2023. She is currently commanding the private space mission led by Axiom Space to the ISS. Sunita L. Williams follows with 608 days, having participated in four missions, known especially for her spacewalks and marathon in orbit.&nbsp;&nbsp;Don Pettit is third with 590 days, contributing significantly to science and engineering aboard the ISS. Jeff Williams comes next with 534 days over four missions, the last of which was in 2016. Mark Vande Hei logged 523 days in total, 355 of which were from a single long-duration mission between 2021 and 2022.&nbsp;<h2>Completing the top seven: Scott Kelly and Mike Barratt</h2>&nbsp;Scott Kelly, known for his nearly year-long stay on the ISS, accumulated 520 days in total. In 2016, Kelly and Russian cosmonaut Mikhail Kornienko completed a historic 340-day mission aboard the ISS. His mission yielded valuable insights into the physical and mental effects of long-term spaceflight.&nbsp;&nbsp;Rounding out the list is Mike Barratt, with 447 days across two missions. Mike went on two missions. Each of these astronauts played a crucial role in the ongoing research into human health, spacecraft systems, and life-support technologies, advancing NASA’s preparations for future missions beyond low Earth orbit.&nbsp;

The Axiom-4 mission was launched on Wednesday with four crew members, includes Peggy Whitson, former NASA astronaut, who holds the record for highest cumulative days in space.

NASA astronauts have cumulatively spent thousands of days aboard the International Space Station (ISS), enabling critical research into the effects of long-duration space travel. Among them, seven have stood out for their exceptional time spent in orbit, shaping our understanding of human endurance and systems vital for deep space exploration. The agency maintains two key metrics: time spent on a single spaceflight and cumulative time across an astronaut’s career. While Frank Rubio holds the record for the longest single mission at 371 days, it is Peggy Whitson who leads overall with a total of 675 days in space.

The Axiom-4 mission was launched on Wednesday with four crew members, includes Peggy Whitson, former NASA astronaut, who holds the record for highest cumulative days in space.

Who’s spent the most time in space? NASA’s top 7 astronauts, including Axiom-4’s Peggy Whitson

Shubhanshu Shukla, Group Captain in the Indian Air Force, became the first Indian to reach the International Space Station (ISS), marking a historic milestone for India’s space ambitions. Part of the Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4), Shukla addressed the nation from the ISS on Thursday, saying, “It is a privilege to be among the few who have had the chance to see Earth from such a vantage point.”

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

&nbsp;His message followed a successful 28-hour journey aboard SpaceX’s Dragon spacecraft, which docked with the ISS’s Harmony module. He was pinned with the official Astronaut No. 634 badge by mission commander Peggy Whitson before delivering his remarks. “Thanks to your love and blessings, I have safely reached the International Space Station,” he said. “It may look easy to stand here and speak, but it’s actually a little difficult. There’s a bit of pressure on the head, a bit of discomfort, but these are small things. In just a few days, we’ll get used to it.”&nbsp;<h2>14-day science mission, ISRO collaboration underway</h2>&nbsp;Shukla is joined by Whitson, Tibor Kapu (Hungary), and Sławosz Uznański (Poland) on the Ax-4 mission, operated by Axiom Space in collaboration with NASA, ESA, ISRO, and SpaceX. The crew will work alongside the seven Expedition 73 crewmates, conducting over 60 scientific experiments — including seven developed by ISRO. “This is just the first step of a long journey. We will be conducting many experiments and also speaking to you from time to time,” Shukla said.&nbsp;Expressing national pride, he added, “I’m carrying the tricolour on my shoulder, and I believe you are all with me. So I believe that all of you are as excited as I am. The next 14 days are going to be very exciting. Jai Hind. Jai Bharat.” ISRO has reportedly paid $59 million for Shukla’s seat and training, aiming to use insights from this mission to advance India’s human spaceflight programme, including Gaganyaan in 2027, a space station by 2035, and a lunar mission by 2040.&nbsp;“I'm looking forward to the next 14 days, advancing science and research, and working together,” Shukla said as he passed the mic to his fellow crewmate from Poland.

“This is just the first step of a long journey. We will be conducting many experiments and also speaking to you from time to time,” Shukla said.

Shubhanshu Shukla, Group Captain in the Indian Air Force, became the first Indian to reach the International Space Station (ISS), marking a historic milestone for India’s space ambitions. Part of the Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4), Shukla addressed the nation from the ISS on Thursday, saying, “It is a privilege to be among the few who have had the chance to see Earth from such a vantage point.”

“This is just the first step of a long journey. We will be conducting many experiments and also speaking to you from time to time,” Shukla said.

'Carrying the Tricolour on my shoulder’: Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla makes historic address from space

The SpaceX Dragon spacecraft carrying the Axiom-4 (Ax-4) crew, including India’s Shubhanshu Shukla, successfully docked with the International Space Station (ISS) at 6:30 am ET (4:00 pm IST) on Thursday, June 26. The docking, known as ‘soft capture,’ was smooth and marked a key milestone in the mission, which lifted off from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral, Florida, on June 25 at 12:01 pm IST. This event makes Shukla the second Indian to travel to space, 40 years after Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma's mission in 1984, and the first Indian astronaut to reach the ISS.&nbsp;Shukla, a 39-year-old fighter pilot and the mission pilot, is part of a four-member international crew. Alongside him are Peggy Whitson (USA), the mission commander and a former NASA astronaut; Slawosz Uznanski-Wisniewski (Poland), and Tibor Kapu (Hungary), both serving as mission specialists.&nbsp;WATCH:&nbsp;

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

&nbsp;<h2>What's next?</h2>&nbsp;The crew is set to spend 14 days aboard the ISS, undertaking various scientific experiments. Organised as a joint effort by NASA, SpaceX, and Axiom Space, with support from ISRO. This mission represents a growing trend of commercial human spaceflight involving international collaboration.&nbsp;<h2>Post-Docking Process Begins, Hatch Opening 2 Hours Away</h2>&nbsp;Following the successful docking, the post-docking sequence is underway before the astronauts can enter the ISS. The first step, known as ‘soft capture,’ was completed as the Dragon spacecraft latched onto the docking port. This is followed by ‘hard mate’, a process involving mechanical latches and hooks engaging to form a secure, airtight connection between Dragon and the ISS.&nbsp;Next comes the leak check and pressure equalisation phase, during which engineers carefully inspect for air leaks and gradually balance the pressure between the spacecraft and the station. Once a safe and stable environment is confirmed, astronauts remove their helmets or suits, known as suit doffing, and system readiness is verified, ensuring all life support and airflow systems are operational. Only after these procedures are completed, typically two hours post-docking, will the hatch be opened, allowing the Ax-4 crew to officially enter the ISS.

The docking, known as ‘soft capture,’ was smooth and marked a key milestone in the mission, which lifted off from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral, Florida, on June 25 at 12:01 pm IST. 

The SpaceX Dragon spacecraft carrying the Axiom-4 (Ax-4) crew, including India’s Shubhanshu Shukla, successfully docked with the International Space Station (ISS) at 6:30 am ET (4:00 pm IST) on Thursday, June 26. The docking, known as ‘soft capture,’ was smooth and marked a key milestone in the mission, which lifted off from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral, Florida, on June 25 at 12:01 pm IST. This event makes Shukla the second Indian to travel to space, 40 years after Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma's mission in 1984, and the first Indian astronaut to reach the ISS. Shukla, a 39-year-old fighter pilot and the mission pilot, is part of a four-member international crew. Alongside him are Peggy Whitson (USA), the mission commander and a former NASA astronaut; Slawosz Uznanski-Wisniewski (Poland), and Tibor Kapu (Hungary), both serving as mission specialists. WATCH:

The docking, known as ‘soft capture,’ was smooth and marked a key milestone in the mission, which lifted off from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral, Florida, on June 25 at 12:01 pm IST.&nbsp;

WATCH: Dragon docks at International Space Station with Shubhanshu Shukla onboard; post-docking steps begin

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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