New Delhi | June 26,2025 | Axiom-4 mission ISS docking: The SpaceX Crew Dragon successfully docked with the ISS carrying Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, marking India’s return to crewed space missions after Rakesh Sharma’s 1984 flight. The Axiom-4 mission’s Crew Dragon spacecraft successfully completed soft capture docking with the International Space Station on June 27, 2025, carrying Indian Air Force Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla.
This marks India’s first crewed mission to the ISS since Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma’s historic 1984 Soyuz flight. The docking occurred at 13:34 UTC as the spacecraft autonomously connected to the Harmony module’s space-facing port.
Axiom-4 mission ISS docking: 7 Indian-led experiments
Shukla’s 14-day mission will conduct seven Indian-led experiments, including microgravity studies on plant germination and muscle atrophy. The astronaut carried symbolic items including gajar ka halwa and mango nectar, while Udit Narayan’s classic “Rahi Chala Chal” played during the pre-launch sequence – blending scientific ambition with cultural pride. NASA’s Peggy Whitson, commanding the multinational crew, praised the precision docking as “textbook perfect” during her live commentary.
Gateway to Gaganyaan
ISRO scientists emphasize this mission’s critical role in preparing for India’s 2026 Gaganyaan program. The Axiom-4 experience provides vital data on:
Astronaut physiological adaptation
Microgravity experiment protocols
International crew coordination
Prime Minister Modi hailed the docking as “a new chapter in India’s space odyssey,” while the Indian Space Association noted this demonstrates growing private-public space collaboration.
Shubhanshu Shukla launched on June 25, 2025 aboard SpaceX’s Falcon 9 from Kennedy Space Center as part of the Axiom‑4 mission. He became the first Indian pilot to reach the International Space Station in over 41 years. The launch was shared live via onboard camera feeds that viewers worldwide watched in real time. The live coverage showed Shukla wishing viewers “Jai Hind” as he ascended into orbit.
Crew, Experiments, and Strategic Role
The Axiom‑4 crew includes mission specialists from the U.S., Poland, and Hungary and starts docking at the ISS on June 26. The team will conduct over 60 experiments in microgravity that explore areas like biology, materials science, health, AI, and microalgae. These experiments support ISRO’s Gaganyaan mission, as they help validate equipment and procedures necessary for India’s own future with men flights.
Family Support and National Pride
Shukla’s family support was visible at liftoff. His wife Kamna and six‑year‑old son were on hand to see him off. National pride surged as former astronaut Rakesh Sharma, Prime Minister Modi, and UP Chief Minister celebrated this historic mission. School children and public viewing centres tuned into the live feed across India, marking a morale boost for youth interested in science and space.
Partnerships, Progress, and Future Impact
Axiom Space announced a strategic collaboration with Skyroot Aerospace to promote commercial missions involving Indian pilots. Collaboration between NASA, ISRO and private players aims to bolster India’s space capabilities. → Such partnerships increase confidence and resources for the upcoming Gaganyaan flights.
Shubhanshu Shukla’s flight represents more than a personal milestone—it signals India’s re-entry into crewed space activities and global space partnerships. The mission will provide real mission data and inspire future astronauts. Live streaming of onboard experiments and daily updates from the ISS will be shared throughout the 14‑day mission. This transparency will build public interest and support for India’s Gaganyaan program.
