Indian Astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla's ISS Mission Delayed Again

Delay in Launch of Axiom Mission 4

The journey of Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla to the International Space Station (ISS) has faced another setback, marking the third delay. Axiom Space announced on Thursday that the planned launch date of June 22 has been postponed. Initially set for June 11, the mission was first delayed to June 19 due to detected leaks during post-static fire booster inspections. The subsequent rescheduling to June 22 has now also been altered.

Official Statements from Agencies

According to a statement from the International Space Station, '@NASA, @Axiom Space, and @SpaceX are currently assessing launch opportunities for Axiom Mission 4. NASA has decided to postpone the launch originally scheduled for Sunday, June 22, and will announce a new date shortly.'

Axiom Space indicated that the revised launch date will be revealed soon, as the agency requires more time to assess ISS operations following recent repairs in the Zvezda service module's rear segment.

Details on the Ax-4 Crew and Research

The Ax-4 crew comprises astronauts from India, Poland, and Hungary, marking a historic first for each nation in terms of missions to the ISS. This mission is also notable as the second government-sponsored human spaceflight in over four decades. The Ax-4 mission includes approximately 60 scientific studies and activities from 31 countries, including the U.S., India, Poland, Hungary, Saudi Arabia, Brazil, Nigeria, UAE, and various European nations. It is recognized as one of the most research-intensive missions conducted by Axiom Space aboard the ISS.

Profile of Shubhanshu Shukla

Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla is a Test Pilot and Astronaut with the Indian Air Force. Hailing from Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, he completed his education at City Montessori School. Inspired by the Kargil War in 1999, he pursued a career in the military, successfully clearing the UPSC exams. He completed his military training and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science from the National Defence Academy in 2005.