Axiom-4 Mission Rescheduled for June 19

(From left) Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla, Commander Peggy Whitson (USA), Mission Specialist Sławosz Uznański-Wiśniewski (Poland) and Mission Specialist Tibor Kapu (Hungary)

The highly anticipated Axiom-4 mission, which will carry Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla to the International Space Station (ISS), has been officially rescheduled for June 19, 2025. The new launch date comes after successful resolution of technical issues that had earlier postponed the mission, originally slated for June 11.

Two critical technical problems had delayed the launch. Among them, a liquid oxygen leak in the Falcon 9 launch vehicle was discovered during routine pre-launch inspections. Following a detailed coordination meeting between ISRO, Axiom Space, and SpaceX, it was confirmed that the issue has been fully resolved, clearing the way for the mission to proceed.

This mission carries historic significance for India. If successful, Shubhanshu Shukla will become the first Indian astronaut to visit the ISS and the second Indian in space, following Rakesh Sharma, who flew aboard a Soviet mission in 1984.

Over the course of the 14-day mission, Shukla will perform scientific experiments focused on space nutrition and food systems. These experiments are the result of a collaborative effort between ISRO and NASA, aiming to enhance understanding of long-term human spaceflight support systems.

The Axiom-4 mission is a joint venture involving NASA, SpaceX, and ISRO, representing a new chapter in international spaceflight cooperation. Beyond its symbolic value, the mission serves as a vital precursor to India’s upcoming Gaganyaan programme—an ambitious project that seeks to send Indian astronauts into space using indigenous technology.

The operational experience and technical insights gained from this mission are expected to directly inform and strengthen India’s future human spaceflight capabilities, further solidifying its growing stature in global space exploration.