Marking a significant milestone, Shubhanshu Shukla, an astronaut from ISRO, will participate in the Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4) on June 10, 2025. This mission highlights the collaborative efforts of NASA, ISRO, Axiom Space, and SpaceX. Shukla will be the first astronaut from ISRO to board the ISS.
The launch from Launch Complex 39A at the Kennedy Space Center is set for 8:22 am local time, with the crew traveling in a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft propelled by a Falcon 9 rocket. The spacecraft is scheduled to dock at the ISS at approximately 12:30 pm on June 11.
The mission will be commanded by Peggy Whitson, with Shubhanshu Shukla as the pilot. The crew will also include astronauts from Poland and Hungary. The crew’s activities during their two-week stay on the ISS will encompass a variety of scientific experiments, educational outreach, and commercial activities.
Shubhanshu Shukla, a native of Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, completed his education and training at the National Defence Academy. He is a combat leader and seasoned test pilot with about 2,000 hours of flying experience across various aircrafts.
NASA and ISRO are also collaborating on joint science experiments and space technology-based educational programs.