IAF Group Captain and ISRO astronaut-candidate Shubhanshu Shukla, who has been chosen as India’s Gaganyatri for the International Space Station (ISS) mission in collaboration with NASA and the US space agency Axiom, has arrived in the US for specialized training ahead of his inaugural space journey.
Axiom Space announced on Monday that it is partnering with India (via ISRO), Poland (with support from the European Space Agency), and Hungary to send three astronauts to the space station on Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4), the company’s upcoming commercial human spaceflight mission.
The Ax-4 crew includes commander Peggy Whitson, mission pilot Shubhanshu Shukla, mission specialist Slawosz Uznanski from ESA/Poland, and mission specialist Tibor Kapu from Hungary. Axiom Space welcomed the crew on X, stating: “Welcome to Houston #Ax4! This week the crew will begin training with their commander AstroPeggy.” The training will be conducted in collaboration with Axiom Space, NASA, and SpaceX.
The mission will focus on scientific research, technology demonstrations, and the commercialization of space. It also aims to enhance international cooperation by sharing knowledge and resources, establishing these nations as key players in the expanding space community.
ISRO Chairman S. Somanath revealed that the Gaganyatri will be involved in conducting five experiments, some of which are developed in India, as part of Axiom Mission 4. He also mentioned that international experiments are being developed in partnership with other space agencies. Somanath emphasized that the mission will provide valuable insights for India’s Gaganyaan program, helping to refine the process and understand spacecraft docking procedures.
He further explained that the mission of sending an Indian astronaut to the ISS extends beyond just conducting experiments. “The purpose of a Gaganyatri traveling to the ISS is also to gain comprehensive insights into mission operations. This experience will help us determine how India should prepare for Gaganyaan. By observing the astronaut’s conduct and how the spacecraft docks with the ISS, we can learn valuable lessons. Additionally, the astronaut will receive training in mission operations, working alongside an international crew already stationed there,” the ISRO chief noted.
NASA Administrator Bill Nelson congratulated ISRO on X, saying: “Congratulations, ISRO. We look forward to welcoming the first ISRO astronaut to the International Space Station! This is a monumental step forward for the US-India partnership in space.”
Shukla’s family in Lucknow expressed pride in his selection. His father, Shambhu Dayal Shukla, a retired government officer, noted that the family is filled with pride rather than anxiety. His mother, Asha Shukla, described Shubhanshu as “cool-minded” and someone who remains calm under pressure.
