The Axiom 4 mission successfully launched, carrying Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla to the International Space Station. Shukla becomes the second Indian to travel to space and the first to visit the ISS. He shared a message from space, saying, ‘This is not the beginning of a space station journey, it is the beginning of India’s human space program.’ Shukla will conduct 60 space experiments during his mission.Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla’s historic words from space after the Axiom‑4 launch on June 25, 2025. “Namaskar, my dear countrymen!” — He greeted India warmly, marking a heartfelt moment.
“What a ride!” — Expressing sheer excitement just ~10 minutes after liftoff, shortly after Dragon capsule Grace separated. “We are back in space after 41 years.” — A nod to the last Indian space mission (Rakesh Sharma, 1984).“Orbiting Earth at about 7.5 km/sec.” — Sharing mission details and the thrill of orbital velocity. “The Tiranga embossed on my shoulders tells me I’m with all of you.” — Reinforcing national pride and solidarity. “This journey … is the beginning of India’s human space programme. Let’s begin together. Jai Hind. Jai Bharat.” — A rallying call to unite the nation in this milestone. He became the first Indian astronaut at ISS and only the second Indian in space after Rakesh Sharma. The mission launched from Kennedy Space Center’s Launch Complex 39A at 12:01 PM IST, June 25, 2025. The Dragon spacecraft “Grace” will dock at the ISS and host experiments—Shukla is carrying scientific gear and even Indian sweets like mango nectar and halwa.
