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LIVE | Shubhanshu Shukla Axiom-4 Mission Launch: 'India's Global Reputation Has Enhanced Significantly,' Former ISRO Scientist Hails Progress

Shubhanshu Shukla Axiom-4 Mission Launch Live Streaming: India’s Shubhanshu Shukla has made history as he begins his journey to the ISS aboard NASA’s Axiom-4 mission today! Stay tuned for the latest updates.

Pic Credit: NASA
LIVE Blog

Shubhanshu Shukla's Axiom-4 Mission Launch Live Updates: The Ax-4 Crew has begun their journey to the ISS successfully. Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla and crew lift off into space today, June 25, as part of the highly anticipated Axiom Space Mission 4. The historic launch was a sight to behold and marks India’s major leap in human spaceflight efforts.

The crew took off from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, aboard SpaceX’s Dragon spacecraft, launched by the Falcon 9 rocket. This is a joint mission led by NASA, Axiom Space, SpaceX, ISRO, and the European Space Agency (ESA).

Shukla, representing ISRO and the Indian Air Force, is serving as the mission’s pilot, making him the second Indian in space after Rakesh Sharma’s landmark journey in 1984. He is accompanied by mission commander and former NASA astronaut Peggy Whitson, and specialists from Poland and Hungary, Sławosz Uznański-Wiśniewski and Tibor Kapu.

The Axiom-4 mission, also dubbed Mission Akash Ganga, was delayed multiple times due to weather and technical setbacks. Initially set for May 29, today’s launch follows rigorous checks by SpaceX and ISRO for maximum safety.

The Indian space agency acquired Shukla’s seat on the mission for a reported ₹550 crore, making this India’s first participation in a private international spaceflight mission. The crew will spend about two weeks aboard the International Space Station conducting research and outreach.

Docking is expected to take place tomorrow, June 26, at 4:30 PM IST. Stay tuned for all live updates and coverage as India sends its second astronaut to space.

Stay Tuned To Zee News For Latest Updates For Shubhanshu Shukla's Axiom-4 Mission Launch...

25 June 2025
21:33 IST

Shubhanshu Shukla's Axiom Mission 4 Launch LIVE: A Recap Of The Stunning Launch 

20:49 IST

Axiom Mission 4 Launch LIVE: 'Shubhanshu Shukla's Space Journey Is A Proud Milestone,' Says Siddaramaiah

India’s pride soared high as Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla blasted off to the International Space Station aboard Axiom Mission 4, becoming the first Indian in space in 41 years since Rakesh Sharma. Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah hailed it as a “proud milestone,” while Deputy CM DK Shivakumar called it a “moment of pride for every Indian.” BJP leader BY Vijayendra highlighted the feat as proof of India’s growing role in global space exploration under PM Modi’s leadership. The mission, launched aboard SpaceX’s Falcon-9 rocket, symbolizes a renewed chapter in India’s space legacy. Jai Hind echoed across leaders’ congratulatory messages.

20:11 IST

Axiom Mission 4 Launch LIVE: Family Beams With Pride As Subhanshu Shukla Takes India Back To Space After 41 Years

Group Captain Subhanshu Shukla’s historic journey aboard the Axiom-4 mission brought pride and emotion to his family in Lucknow, who watched the launch with “tears of joy.” His mother, Asha Shukla, got emotional, while his sisters wished for his safe return and future missions. Shukla, now orbiting Earth, hailed the mission as a step toward India’s Human Space Programme. His message from space echoed national pride: “The Tiranga embossed on my shoulders tells me I am with all of you.” The SpaceX Dragon is scheduled to dock with the ISS at 4 pm IST on June 26.

18:30 IST

Axiom Mission 4 Launch LIVE Updates: Former ISRO Scientist Hails Axiom-4 Progress

The Axiom-4 mission to the International Space Station (ISS) is progressing as planned, with safe docking expected by tomorrow, said former ISRO scientist Mylswamy Annadurai. Launched aboard SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket, the mission marks a historic milestone as Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla becomes the first Indian to reach the ISS. Annadurai praised the rocket’s performance and expressed pride over India’s growing presence in space. Shukla’s emotional message about the Tiranga being a symbol of unity and pride was echoed by Annadurai, calling the mission a proud moment for Indians around the world.

17:57 IST

Axiom Mission 4 Launch LIVE: Shubhanshu Shukla's Space Journey Is Proud Milestone, Says Siddaramaiah

India’s pride soared high as Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla blasted off to the International Space Station aboard Axiom Mission 4, becoming the first Indian in space in 41 years since Rakesh Sharma. Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah hailed it as a “proud milestone,” while Deputy CM DK Shivakumar called it a “moment of pride for every Indian.” 

BJP leader BY Vijayendra highlighted the feat as proof of India’s growing role in global space exploration under PM Modi’s leadership. The mission, launched aboard SpaceX’s Falcon-9 rocket, symbolizes a renewed chapter in India’s space legacy. Jai Hind echoed across leaders’ congratulatory messages.

17:55 IST

'Axiom Mission 4 Has Significantly Enhanced India's Global Reputation,' Says Union Minister Jitendra Singh

Union Minister Jitendra Singh commented on India's Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla's involvement in Axiom Mission 4, stating that it has significantly enhanced India's global reputation. He noted that space exploration has become a symbol of this rising esteem, with Indian youths experiencing an increase in their standing when introducing themselves abroad, especially in contrast to 2014. He emphasised that the outcomes and discoveries from these explorations would benefit not only India but the entire world.

Additionally, he highlighted that India has developed a unique approach to utilizing space technology to improve living standards, extending beyond rocket launches to fields like agriculture, healthcare, telemedicine, disaster management, forecasting systems, and farm mapping. He concluded that India’s reach in these areas has been distinctive.

 

17:31 IST

Axiom Mission 4 Launch LIVE: Union Minister Jitendra Singh Explains How Shubhashu Shukla Was Picked Up For Axiom 4 Mission

Union Minister Jitendra Singh expressed pride in Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla becoming the first Indian to visit the International Space Station. He noted that it was a significant achievement, particularly because the mission had originally been planned a few years earlier during Prime Minister Modi's visit to Washington, D.C. Singh explained that at that time, an offer had been made to include an Indian astronaut in the mission.

He mentioned that there were four Air Force officers who had already been undergoing training for Gaganyaan, and since Shubhanshu was the youngest among them, he was ultimately chosen for the mission, with Group Captain Prasanth Nair as the standby. Singh highlighted that the Americans were eager to have an Indian onboard, indicating their recognition of India's potential, talent, and capacity to contribute to space exploration.

16:57 IST

Axiom Mission 4 Launch Live: India And Poland Keep Costs Under Wraps

India, Poland and Hungary are covering the costs for their astronauts’ flights. Hungary has revealed it will spend about $100 million for its seat—a figure announced in 2022—whereas India and Poland have not made their expenditures public.

16:01 IST

Axiom Mission 4 Launch LIVE: Why India's Shubhanshu Shukla's ISS Journey Takes 28 Hours?

This longer trip is the result of a subtle interplay of technical and scientific parameters. The ISS orbits Earth at an altitude of about 400 kilometers (250 miles) in Low Earth Orbit, flying through space at a speed of 28,000 kilometers per hour (17,500 mph). Capturing such a high-speed target is a matter of precise orbital maneuvers.

READ MORE HERE...

 

15:47 IST

Axiom Mission 4 Launch LIVE: Shubhanshu Shukla's Special Message For India

After the lift off, Shubhanshu Shukla said, "The Indian flag on my shoulder reminds me that I'm not alone. This is the beginning of India's Human Space Program and I want all Indians to be a part of this journey. You should all be proud. Let's all begin this journey. Jai Hind, Jai Bharat!"

READ MORE HERE...

15:42 IST

Axiom Mission 4 Launch LIVE: Rahul Gandhi Hails IAF’s Shubhanshu Shukla

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Sunday congratulated Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla for embarking on his space mission to the International Space Station, calling it a moment of immense national pride.

Taking to social media, Gandhi said, “A proud moment for every Indian as Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla launches off on his journey to the International Space Station. 41 years after Squadron Leader Rakesh Sharma became the first Indian in space, he now carries forward that legacy, inspiring every Indian. Wishing him and the team a safe and successful return. Jai Hind, Jai Bharat.

15:32 IST

Axiom Mission 4 Launch LIVE: Successful Docking And Safe Return Are Next Challenges

Union Minister Jitendra Singh stated that technically, the challenge of successful launching had been achieved. However, he emphasised that a more important aspect was the successful docking, which was scheduled to take place the next day around 4:30 PM IST, followed by a safe return.

15:03 IST

Shubhanshu Shukla's Axiom Mission 4 Launch LIVE: SpaceX Shares Stunning Launch Pics

14:57 IST

Axiom Mission 4 Launch LIVE: Falcon 9 Launches Ax-4, Dragon’s 18th Human Spaceflight Mission

14:49 IST

Axiom Mission 4 Launch Live Updates: Proud Moment For India

Lucknow: Asha Shukla, the mother of IAF Group Captain and astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla, turns emotional while cheering for her son as he embarks on the mission. Watch here:

14:26 IST

Axiom Mission 4 Launch LIVE: President Droupadi Murmu Congratulates Shukla

The President of India, Droupadi Murmu lauds Shubhanshu Shukla for his feat in space exploration with the launch of the Axiom-4 Mission.

” As Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla creates a new milestone in space for India, the whole nation is excited and proud of an Indian’s journey into the stars. He and his fellow astronauts of Axiom Mission 4 from the US, Poland and Hungary prove the world is indeed one family – ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’. My best wishes for the success of this mission, which reflects the enduring partnership between NASA and ISRO. The wide ranging experiments to be performed by the crew will lead to new frontiers of scientific studies and space exploration.” – she wrote on social media.

14:05 IST

Axiom Mission 4 Launch LIVE: Dragon Spacecraft To Dock With The Harmony Module Of ISS

NASA aims to dock the Axiom-4 mission's Dragon spacecraft with the Harmony module of the International Space Station at 7 AM EDT (4:30 PM IST) on June 26. Coverage of the arrival will begin at 5 AM EDT (2:30 PM IST) across Axiom Space, NASA+, and SpaceX channels. The Ax-4 livestream will showcase the events as the crew docks with the space station and is welcomed by NASA’s Expedition 73 Crew during a special ceremony.

13:37 IST

Axiom-4 space mission LIVE: PM Modi Lauds Shubhanshu Shukla

Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his congratulations on the successful launch of the space mission carrying astronauts from India, Hungary, Poland, and the United States.

He highlighted the significance of Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla’s participation, noting that the Indian astronaut is set to become the first from the country to reach the International Space Station.

PM Modi said Shukla carries with him the wishes, hopes, and aspirations of 1.4 billion Indians. He concluded by wishing Shukla and his fellow astronauts every success in their mission.

13:22 IST

Axiom Mission 4 Launch LIVE: 'India's Journey Has Begun,' Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh

On the launch of the Axiom-4 Mission, which is piloted by Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla of the IAF, Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh remarked that India's journey towards becoming a developed nation has begun through advancements in space. He emphasied that this achievement serves as a validation of the vision of Vikram Sarabhai and Satish Dhawan, the pioneers of India's space program. 

Dr Singh noted that this validation has come under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi, highlighting India's transition from being a follower to an equal partner in various collaborations. He also praised Shubhanshu Shukla, identifying him as a key figure in the mission due to his role in conducting seven important experiments developed by Indian institutions, which will hold significant relevance for agencies worldwide.

12:41 IST

Axiom Mission 4 Launch Live Updates: Shukla's Parents' Warm Embrace

Teary eyed, emotional yet proud, Shubhanshu Shukla’s family members share a moment of immense joy as Axiom-4 Mission lifts off from

NASA’s Kennedy Space Centre in Florida, US.

12:30 IST

Shubhanshu Shukla's Axiom Mission 4 Launch LIVE: Second Stage Complete

Dragon has separated from Falcon 9’s second stage

12:29 IST

Axiom Mission 4 Launch LIVE: Falcon 9’s First Stage Booster Lands

Falcon 9’s first stage booster has landed at Landing Zone 1

12:20 IST

Shubhanshu Shukla's Axiom Mission 4 Launch LIVE: Watch Liftoff 

12:13 IST

Axiom Mission 4 Launch LIVE: Shubhanshu Shukla's Special Message For India

After the lift off, Shubhanshu Shukla said, "The Indian flag on my shoulder reminds me that I'm not alone. This is the beginning of India's Human Space Program and I want all Indians to be a part of this journey. You should all be proud. let's all begin this journey. Jai Hind, Jai Bharat!"

12:02 IST

Shubhanshu Shukla's Axiom Mission 4 Launch LIVE: Right On Schedule

11:58 IST

Axiom Mission 4 Launch Live Updates: ‘Go For Launch’

 

11:55 IST

Shubhanshu Shukla's Axiom Mission 4 Launch LIVE: Watch Ax-4 Mission To The Space Station

Watch Falcon 9 launch Dragon and Axiom Space's Ax-4 mission to the Space Station

11:55 IST

Axiom Mission 4 Launch LIVE: Troubleshooting Cleared

After clearing the troubleshooting problem, the crew has moved towards closing their visors, and a propellant lodge. Once last-minute checks pass, Shubhanshu Shukla and crew will be ready for lift off!

11:52 IST

Axiom Mission 4 Launch LIVE: Falcon 9 Rocket Is Reusable

The Falcon 9 rocket being used for this mission is partially reusable. The first stage of the rocket will separate within the first three minutes after the launch, and will eventually return to Earth. The first stage of this particular rocket has already done one flight earlier.

 

11:43 IST

Axiom Mission 4 Launch Live Updates: Troubleshooting Cleared, Crew Ready For Lift Off!

After clearing the troubleshooting problem, the crew has moved towards closing their visors, and a propellant lodge. Once last-minute checks pass, Shubhanshu Shukla and crew will be ready for lift off!

11:41 IST

Axiom Mission 4 Launch LIVE: Cryo-Loading On Falcon 9

Cryo loading in space flight refers to the process of loading cryogenic (extremely low-temperature) propellants like liquid hydrogen and liquid oxygen into a rocket’s fuel tanks. These propellants are crucial for achieving the high thrust needed for space travel, particularly for overcoming Earth’s gravity and reaching deep space destinations.

11:36 IST

Axiom Mission 4 Launch LIVE: Who Is Shubhanshu Shukla?

A test pilot, combat leader and now an astronaut, Shubhanshu Shukla, who is a serving Group Captain in the Indian Air Force, is all set for his most awaited and challenging sortie into space as India awaits lift-off.

Ahead of launch, Shukla said, "I want to say to the people of India, this mission is a milestone and I request India to pray for the success of the mission. Even stars are attainable."

 

11:21 IST

Axiom Mission 4 Launch LIVE: Watch Party Across Schools In India

Young children and teachers come together from schools to tune in to the live stream of the Ax-4 crew. Visuals from Jamshedpur feature in the official SpaceX stream as eager students from school wait for Shubhanshu’s lift-off.

11:10 IST

Axiom Mission 4 Launch LIVE: Spotlight On Peggy Whitson

With over 30 years of experience and the second time commander of Axiom Mission, Peggy Whitson was the first female commander of the ISS and has spent 675 days in space. Shubhanshu Shukla talked to Axiom and revealed how he greatly looks up to her.

11:01 IST

Axiom Mission 4 Launch LIVE: Ax-4 Training Was A Space Station Analogy

The intense goals set for the Ax-4 crew’s role at the ISS include everything from radiation experiments to growing plants.

10:55 IST

Shubhanshu Shukla's Axiom Mission 4 Launch LIVE: Watch Latest Visuals Of Dragon Spacecraft!

(Pic Credits: SpaceX)

10:53 IST

Axiom Mission 4 Launch LIVE: Dragon’s Hatch Closed, Ax-4 Crew Ready For Launch!

Dragon’s hatch is closed, all communication and suit checks are complete, the seats are rotated, and the Ax-4 crew is ready for launch!

10:50 IST

Axiom Mission 4 Launch LIVE: 'Tibor Is 'Life'

An engineer and a chaser of adventure. Shubhanshu Shukla describes his Hungarian teammate TIbor Kapu as “life” as he brings joy to the entire Axion-4 crew. He is the Mission Specialist.

 

10:46 IST

Shubhanshu Shukla's Axiom Mission 4 Launch LIVE: Watch Ax-4 Mission To The Space Station

Watch Falcon 9 launch Dragon and Axiom Space's Ax-4 mission to the Space Station

 

 

10:42 IST

Shubhanshu Shukla's Axiom Mission 4 Launch LIVE: Meet The Crew

Meet the crew flying on Dragon for Axiom Space’s fourth mission to the Space Station.

 

10:40 IST

Axiom Mission 4 Launch LIVE: Shubhanshu In Space Suit

Falcon 9 undergoing last-minute system check, Shubhanshu Shukla ready to lift-off with crew at 12 noon

10:24 IST

Axiom Mission 4 Launch Live Updates: Visuals Emerge Of The Ax-4 Crew

The Axiom-4 crew greet family members and pose for a photo-op before proceeding to the SpaceX Dragon Launchpad 39A.

 

10:20 IST

Axiom Mission 4 Launch LIVE: Indian Astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla Will Study Microorganism Tardigrades In ISS

Tardigrades, commonly referred to as water bears, are tiny microorganisms that play a crucial role in an experiment aimed at exploring their revival, survival, and reproduction in the environment of the International Space Station (ISS).

These remarkable organisms are known for their resilience, having withstood five mass extinctions throughout history. Tardigrades possess extraordinary survival capabilities, enabling them to endure radiation, the vacuum of space, and extreme dehydration. Measuring between 0.5 and 1.5 mm in length, researchers believe that studying Tardigrades could provide insights into how we can better protect humans during space missions and enhance cancer treatments on Earth. Their exceptional adaptability may also help pave the way for survival strategies for future missions to the Moon and Mars.

10:17 IST

Axiom Mission 4 Launch Live Updates: Union Minister Jirendra Singh comments

“Indian astronaut Group Captain Subhanshu Shukla formally joins the other three crew members for the much-awaited launch, as of now, scheduled around 12:01 PM IST today. ”

10:12 IST

Axiom Mission 4 Launch LIVE: Shubhanshu Shukla's Sister Says, 'Bringing Laurels To Country'

The city of Lucknow is extremely proud of its star, Shubhanshu Shukla, IAF group captain and ISRO’s representative on the Axiom-4 mission. His family and neighbhours express immense pride in him.

“I will only give my best wishes, and my biggest request is that everyone prays for the successful completion of their mission…” said his sister Shuchi Mishra.

10:09 IST

Axiom Mission 4 Launch LIVE: What Is The Research Following The Ax-4?

The 60 experiments that will be conducted under the Axion-4 mission will include examining muscle regeneration, growth of sprouts and edible microalgae, survival of tiny aquatic organisms, and human interaction with electronic displays in microgravity.

09:55 IST

Shubhanshu Shukla's Axiom Mission 4 Launch LIVE: Science Takes Flight

During his 14-day space journey, Shubhanshu Shukla will conduct seven groundbreaking Indian science experiments designed by leading national researchers.

ISRO’s Tushar Phadnis confirmed that India's role in Axiom Mission 4 will offer crucial insights for the upcoming Gaganyaan human spaceflight program and India's broader space goals.

Key among the studies is an experiment on seed germination in microgravity—vital for future space-based nutrition and India-specific food systems in orbit.

09:43 IST

Axiom Mission 4 Launch LIVE: MLA Commander Shares Pic Of The Crew Before They Head To The Suit-Up Facility

Sharing the pic on X, Michael L-A wrote, "Feeling pride for Axiom Space- and more than a little FOMO - seeing off the #Ax4 crew just before they head to the suit-up facility. Go Ax-4!"

 

09:29 IST

Axiom Mission 4 Launch LIVE: Shubhanshu Shukla To Spend About 14 Days In The ISS Conducting Various Experiments

The Axiom-4 mission has scheduled a total of 60 experiments to be conducted by its four-member crew aboard the International Space Station (ISS). This includes seven experiments organised by ISRO and five in which Shukla will participate for NASA’s human research program. The experiments Shukla will undertake hold significant implications for future projects, such as the Gaganyaan mission and the proposed Bharat Antariksh Station.

Shukla aims to investigate the physical, cognitive, and physiological responses experienced in space, as well as the effects of continuous electronic displays in microgravity, a crucial consideration for extended missions. His research will address skeletal muscle dysfunction in space and explore therapeutic strategies to mitigate these effects.

In addition, Shukla will focus on the revival, survival, and reproduction of extremophiles like tardigrades, organisms recognized for their remarkable ability to thrive in extreme conditions.

09:22 IST

Shubhanshu Shukla's Axiom Mission 4 Launch LIVE: NASA's Statement On Collaboration

"As part of a collaboration between NASA and ISRO, Axiom Mission 4 delivers on a commitment highlighted by President Donald Trump and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to send the first ISRO astronaut to the station."

The space agencies are participating in five joint science investigations and two in-orbit STEM demonstrations.

"NASA and ISRO have a long-standing relationship built on a shared vision to advance scientific knowledge and expand space collaboration."

09:17 IST

Axiom Mission 4 Launch LIVE: Axiom Mission 4 Schedule

Thursday, June 26

2:30 PM: Arrival coverage begins on NASA+, Axiom Space, and SpaceX channels.

4:30 PM: Targeted docking to the space-facing port of the station’s Harmony module.

Arrival coverage will continue through hatch opening and welcome remarks.

09:11 IST

Shubhanshu Shukla's Axiom Mission 4 Launch LIVE: Axiom Mission 4 Schedule

Wednesday, June 25

10 AM: Live streaming of Axiom Space and SpaceX launch begins

11:10 AM: NASA joins live coverage

12.01 PM: Axiom-4 mission launch

09:10 IST

Shubhanshu Shukla's Axiom Mission 4 Launch LIVE: Second Indian To head To ISS

Shubhanshu Shukla, the pilot of the Axiom Mission 4 is the second Indian set to make his journey to the International Space Station. He is the first since Rakesh Sharma’s iconic mission in 1984.

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