Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla Becomes History, Docks at International Space Station through Axiom-4 Mission
Indian Air Force Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla made it official by reaching the International Space Station (ISS), a feat that makes him the first Indian to arrive at the orbiting laboratory in more than 40 years. The flight aboard SpaceX's Dragon spacecraft is a historical milestone for India's return to human spaceflight.
The Ax-4 mission, which flew from NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, executed a smooth docking—a "soft capture"—with the ISS. The flight launched on June 25 and docked successfully a day later with mission pilot Shukla on board.
This mission is a revival of India's heritage in space exploration following the historic achievement of Rakesh Sharma in 1984. Shukla forms part of a select international team commanded by spaceflight veteran Peggy Whitson, the most experienced astronaut in the history of the United States. They also include Slawosz Uznanski-Wisniewski of Poland, an expert in radiation who is part of the European Space Agency, and Tibor Kapu of Hungary, a mechanical engineer working on crucial research modules.
During their two-week visit, the team will conduct state-of-the-art scientific research, from biological experiments in space to research on materials and new space technologies. The experiments not only advance global scientific cooperation but also set the stage for future commercial missions.
For India, Shukla's flight is more than a symbolic homecoming—it indicates increased momentum toward the nation's own manned mission, Gaganyaan, in development by ISRO. Having him on board Ax-4 demonstrates India's desire to collaborate on international space endeavors and expand the frontiers of what's achievable.
As Shubhanshu Shukla circles Earth, his work is not merely science—it's inspiration. It is a tribute to determination, collaboration, and the beginning of India's new chapter among the stars.
Read more:
Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla: First Indian in Space After 40 Years
