Shubhanshu Shukla Axiom-04 Mission: First Indian in Space After 1984 Under the Axiom-04 (Ax-04) mission, four astronauts will be launched from Florida to the International Space Station (ISS), including India’s Shubhanshu Shukla. A key member of ISRO’s Gaganyaan mission, Shukla will become the first Indian to travel to space since 1984.
“Setting an Example for Indians…” – Shubhanshu Shukla’s Message Ahead of Axiom-4 Mission
The Ax-04 mission is a collaborative effort between ISRO, NASA, Axiom Space, and SpaceX, aimed at conducting various scientific experiments aboard the ISS. This significant mission is scheduled to launch today, June 25, 2025.
After months of anticipation, the day the world had been eagerly waiting for has finally arrived. Under the Axiom-04 (Ax-04) Mission, four astronauts will launch today from Florida, USA, to embark on a journey to the International Space Station (ISS). Among them is India’s very own Shubhanshu Shukla.
Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla is a part of the Indian Space Research Organisation’s (ISRO) Gaganyaan mission, and it is precisely this expertise that led ISRO to nominate him for the prestigious Ax-04 mission.
Joined the Indian Air Force in 2006
Shubhanshu Shukla, a native of Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, was born on October 10, 1985. In June 2006, he joined the fighter wing of the Indian Air Force (IAF). Over the years, Shukla has earned a reputation as a combat leader and an experienced test pilot, with over 2,000 hours of flight experience.
During his time in the Air Force, he has flown several frontline fighter and transport aircraft, including the Sukhoi-30, MiG-21, MiG-29, Jaguar, Hawk, Dornier, and AN-32.
Trained in Russia for One Year
In 2019, Shubhanshu Shukla underwent a year-long astronaut training program at the Yuri Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Center in Moscow, Russia. His dedication and performance earned him national recognition, and on February 27, 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi officially announced Shubhanshu Shukla as one of the astronauts selected for India’s Gaganyaan mission.
Shubhanshu Shared His Experience
Shubhanshu Shukla is extremely excited about his role in the Ax-04 mission. He will become the first Indian to go to space since 1984, making this a historic moment. Axiom Space shared a special video on YouTube featuring Shubhanshu, where his excitement and pride are clearly visible.
In the video, Shubhanshu said:
“I want to set an example for Indians. Representing India on a global space mission is a proud moment, and I hope this inspires future generations.”
