Axiom-4 Mission Carrying Indian Astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla…

The Axiom-4 mission is launching today, featuring Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla and aims to conduct 60 scientific studies. Following delays, the mission is set for liftoff from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center at 2:31 a.m. EDT. This marks a significant return to human spaceflight for India, Poland, and Hungary, emphasizing international collaboration in space exploration.

The much-awaited Axiom-4 mission, carrying Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla, is all set to launch today. The mission is scheduled for liftoff on June 25 at 2:31 a.m. EDT, which translates to around noon IST. This come after several delays attributed to various issues. If everything goes according to plan, liftoff will occur from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center, specifically Launch Complex 39A, using SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket.

SpaceX has been optimistic, declaring that they’re ready for today’s launch. A recent update on X pointed out that all systems look good and there’s a favorable 90 percent chance the weather will cooperate, which is essential for a successful liftoff. The excitement is palpable as they prepare for this key moment in space exploration.

So, what exactly is the Axiom Mission 4? It is classified as a private astronaut mission aimed at the International Space Station (ISS). Notably, this mission marks a historic milestone for India, Poland, and Hungary, being the first government-sponsored flights from these nations in over 40 years. Each country is participating in its second human spaceflight mission, but it’s the first instance that all three will collaborate on an ISS mission.

This ambitious mission will engage in approximately 60 scientific studies, representing 31 different countries worldwide. This includes contributions from India, the US, Poland, Hungary, and a list of nations stretching from Europe to Saudi Arabia and beyond. The global collaboration emphasizes the international interest in advancing scientific research in space.

Now, who’s aboard the mission? Four astronauts are set to head to the ISS: Shubhanshu Shukla from the Indian Space Research Organisation is taking on the role of pilot. Peggy Whitson, a former NASA astronaut and now director of human spaceflight at Axiom, will command the mission. In addition, there will be Sławosz Uznański-Wiśniewski from the European Space Agency representing Poland, along with Hungarian astronaut Tibor Kapu, both serving as mission specialists.

In summary, the Axiom-4 mission, launching today, is a landmark event for India, Poland, and Hungary, marking their return to human spaceflight after decades. With the hopes of a successful launch from Kennedy Space Center, Shubhanshu Shukla and the crew aim to conduct numerous scientific studies aboard the ISS, showcasing international cooperation in space science. All eyes are on SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket as preparations conclude for what could be a pivotal moment in space exploration.

Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com