On June 26, 2025, Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, an Indian Air Force officer and ISRO astronaut, made history as the first Indian to step aboard the International Space Station (ISS) during Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4). In his first remarks from space, Shukla called it a “privilege” to be astronaut number 634 and to view Earth from 400 kilometers above, describing the experience as a “wonderful ride.” This milestone marks India’s return to human spaceflight after 41 years, following Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma’s 1984 mission.
A Historic Launch
The Ax-4 mission, a collaboration between NASA, Axiom Space, and SpaceX, launched successfully at 12:01 PM IST on June 25 from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The SpaceX Dragon spacecraft, carried by a Falcon 9 rocket, docked with the ISS’s Harmony module at 4:01 PM IST on June 26 after a 28-hour journey. Shukla, serving as the mission pilot, was joined by Commander Peggy Whitson (USA), and mission specialists Slawosz Uznanski-Wisniewski (Poland) and Tibor Kapu (Hungary).
In a live update, Shukla shared his awe: “It’s a privilege to see Earth from this vantage point. It’s been a wonderful ride.” His words, delivered as he floated inside the ISS, sparked pride across India, with the crew’s welcome ceremony broadcast live at 7:05 PM IST.
Shukla’s Emotional Message
Before docking, Shukla sent a heartfelt message in Hindi: “Namaskar, mere deshwasiyon! What a ride! 41 saal baad hum waapas antariksh mein pahunch gaye hain.” He emphasized that the mission is a step toward India’s human space program, saying, “The Tiranga on my shoulders reminds me I’m with all of you. Let’s initiate India’s space journey together. Jai Hind! Jai Bharat!” His words resonated deeply, echoing national pride and ambition.
Mission Objectives
The Ax-4 crew will spend 14 days aboard the ISS, conducting over 60 scientific experiments in microgravity, focusing on plant biology, muscle health, and microbial studies. These experiments aim to advance sustainable food sources for future space missions. Shukla, trained rigorously for this role, expressed confidence in the mission’s success, stating, “The next 14 days will be amazing, advancing science and working together.”
A Milestone for India
Shukla’s journey, following Rakesh Sharma’s 1984 mission, is a landmark for India’s space ambitions, aligning with ISRO’s Gaganyaan program. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Droupadi Murmu lauded the mission, with Modi noting it as a “new milestone in India’s space journey.” The mission also marks the first ISS visit by astronauts from India, Poland, and Hungary under a commercial program, reflecting global collaboration.
Public Pride and Inspiration
Social media buzzed with excitement, with posts on X calling Shukla’s achievement a “thrilling moment for every Indian.” His message of unity and progress has inspired millions, positioning India as a rising force in space exploration. As Shukla and his crew begin their research, the nation watches proudly, celebrating a new chapter in its cosmic journey.
Last Updated on: Thursday, June 26, 2025 10:22 pm by Sri Hari Priya Rayaprolu | Published by: Sri Hari Priya Rayaprolu on Thursday, June 26, 2025 10:22 pm | News Categories: News, Latest, Trending
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