Indian Astronaut Set to Embark on Historic Space Mission Next Month
Click to start listening
Synopsis
India is preparing for a historic milestone in its space endeavors with an Indian astronaut slated to travel to the ISS next month. This mission marks significant progress in India's human spaceflight capabilities and international collaborations.
Key Takeaways
- First Indian astronaut to fly to the ISS.
- Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla will participate in Axiom Space mission Ax-4.
- India's first human spaceflight in over four decades.
- Mission signifies India's growing status in global space partnerships.
- Training aims to bolster expertise for future crewed missions.
New Delhi, April 18 (NationPress) India is poised to make history once again in its exploration of space as an Indian astronaut is scheduled to journey to the International Space Station (ISS) next month as part of an international space mission, announced Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, Dr. Jitendra Singh, on Friday.
Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla of the Indian Air Force will participate in the forthcoming Axiom Space mission, Ax-4, slated for May 2025.
This momentous occasion signifies the first time an Indian will travel to the ISS, marking the initial human spaceflight by an Indian in over forty years since Rakesh Sharma's iconic flight in 1984.
Following a comprehensive review meeting with key officials from ISRO and the Department of Space, Minister Singh emphasized that this event will define India’s aspirations in space.
“This mission reflects the nation’s increasing prominence in international space partnerships and highlights India’s preparedness for human spaceflight,” he stated.
“Such initiatives are not merely scientific milestones but resonate with the broader vision of a self-sufficient and developed India,” Singh remarked.
ISRO Chairman Dr. V. Narayanan confirmed that Shukla is thoroughly equipped for the mission, which aims to impart invaluable practical experience for India’s upcoming crewed missions, including the Gaganyaan project.
As a distinguished test pilot, Shukla was among those selected under ISRO’s Human Spaceflight Programme.
His training and forthcoming journey to the ISS will aid India in enhancing its expertise in spaceflight operations, microgravity acclimatization, and safety protocols.
In contrast to the symbolic inaugural spaceflight in 1984, this mission emphasizes operational readiness and global collaboration.
The minister noted that India’s alliances with international organizations and private entities showcase its ambition to emerge as a global leader in space.
The Minister was also updated on various significant advancements by ISRO since January 2025. These include the data release from the Aditya L1 solar mission, successful trials of docking and undocking technologies, and the ignition of India’s most advanced liquid engine to date.
ISRO also celebrated its 100th launch from Sriharikota and facilitated national events such as the Kumbh Mela through satellite-based monitoring.
