In an exciting milestone for India's space program, astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla has set off on a historic mission to become the first Indian to board the International Space Station (ISS). Launching aboard Axiom-4 (Ax-4), this mission represents a significant collaborative effort between NASA, ISRO, ESA, and SpaceX. Shukla, flying under the command of seasoned NASA veteran Peggy Whitson, will spend two weeks conducting various science experiments in zero gravity.
The Axiom-4 mission launched from Kennedy Space Center in Florida, with Shukla making history 41 years after Rakesh Sharma became the first Indian to travel to space. The crew includes international astronauts from Poland and Hungary, marking their nations' returns to space after long absences. During this mission, they'll conduct 60 scientific experiments, including key projects developed by India's ISRO.
Shukla expressed excitement during a live communication onboard, describing the unique experience of floating in space as "amazing." He also introduced Joy, a small toy swan accompanying the crew as their "zero-G indicator," symbolizing wisdom amidst modern distractions.
As India's ambitious space plans unfold, including a human spaceflight by 2027 and a potential moon mission by 2040, Shukla's journey marks a significant step for India's aspirations in space exploration. The mission also emphasizes the collaborative spirit of international space travel, highlighting the importance of goodwill and shared knowledge among nations.
The Axiom-4 mission launched from Kennedy Space Center in Florida, with Shukla making history 41 years after Rakesh Sharma became the first Indian to travel to space. The crew includes international astronauts from Poland and Hungary, marking their nations' returns to space after long absences. During this mission, they'll conduct 60 scientific experiments, including key projects developed by India's ISRO.
Shukla expressed excitement during a live communication onboard, describing the unique experience of floating in space as "amazing." He also introduced Joy, a small toy swan accompanying the crew as their "zero-G indicator," symbolizing wisdom amidst modern distractions.
As India's ambitious space plans unfold, including a human spaceflight by 2027 and a potential moon mission by 2040, Shukla's journey marks a significant step for India's aspirations in space exploration. The mission also emphasizes the collaborative spirit of international space travel, highlighting the importance of goodwill and shared knowledge among nations.
