New Delhi [India], June 9: The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has officially announced the details for the highly anticipated launch of Indian astronaut Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla to the International Space Station (ISS) as part of Axiom Space’s fourth private astronaut mission (Ax-4), in collaboration with NASA.
The historic launch is scheduled for June 10, 2025, at 5:52 PM IST, with a live YouTube telecast beginning at 3:45 PM IST. ISRO shared the viewing link via a post on X (formerly Twitter):
🔗 Watch the Launch Live
In a heartfelt video message released by Axiom Space, Group Captain Shukla reflected on his journey, citing inspiration from Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma, India’s first astronaut who ventured into space in 1984. “This journey has been long and unexpected. I’ve been lucky to live my dream of flying and now flying to space,” Shukla shared. He emphasized his desire to inspire future generations in India and ignite curiosity among children.
The Ax-4 mission marks a significant milestone, making Shukla the second Indian astronaut in history to travel to space. The mission also includes Slawosz Uznanski (Poland), Tibor Kapu (Hungary), and veteran astronaut Peggy Whitson (USA), who will command the mission. This will be the first time India, Poland, and Hungary launch government-sponsored astronauts to the ISS in over 40 years.
The crew has been praised for their diverse expertise. Tibor Kapu lauded Shukla’s profound knowledge, calling him “wise beyond years,” while Whitson admired his spacecraft skills and operational acumen. ESA astronaut Uznanski highlighted Shukla’s exceptional focus and efficiency.
Ahead of liftoff, SpaceX confirmed that the Ax-4 crew successfully completed a full rehearsal of launch-day activities on June 8.
Shukla concluded his message by saying, “These moments remind you that you’re part of something much bigger than yourself. If my story can change even one life, it will be a success.”