New Delhi, June 25, 2025 — Just hours before the big Axiom-04 mission launch, Indian astronaut and Air Force Wing Commander Shubhanshu Shukla shared a really touching message. You could feel his pride, his thankfulness, and how seriously he’s taking this. As the first Indian heading to the International Space Station (ISS) on a private mission, Shukla’s about to write an amazing new chapter for India in space!
The Axiom-04 mission, launching from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center, is a huge step for India. It’s about joining international space projects in a big way, beyond what ISRO usually does. Shubhanshu Shukla will be there representing India. Also, he will work with a global crew on some really cool experiments and research up on the ISS.
Before the launch, Shukla said something that really hit home: “This isn’t just about me. It’s for every Indian who’s looked up at the sky and dreamed big. I’m carrying the hopes of a billion people with me.”
Axiom Space, a private company in the U.S., organized the mission with NASA and other international groups. It’s a team effort between ISRO, the Indian Air Force, and India’s growing space business.
Shukla’s a great pick for this. He’s a seasoned fighter pilot and was a top candidate at ISRO, showing how ambitious India is about space. He trained hard in Houston and Europe with astronauts from all over.
Everyone’s watching the Axiom-04 mission. Shukla being part of it shows that India’s becoming a bigger player in space, both with technology and working with other countries. The mission should last about two weeks. During this time, the crew will do more than 30 science experiments while they’re up there.
