Shubhanshu Shukla's Axiom-4 mission postponed to June 10
BENGALURU: Group Captain
and three other crew members of the Axiom-4 mission (Ax-4) to the International Space Station (ISS) will now launch at 5.52pm, IST, on June 10, pushed by two days from the earlier launch date of June 8.
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'The Ax4 crew is scheduled to launch to the ISS on June 10 at 8:22am (Eastern Time) from Launch Complex 39A at the Kennedy Space Centre,' Axiom Space said Tuesday, without elaborating on the cause for postponement.
With just a few days to go for launch, Shukla addressed the world with a stirring message of resolve, gratitude and vision—one firmly rooted in science and proudly anchored in India's cultural heritage. He spoke as part of the crew's final interaction before lift-off.
Stating that he feels deeply inspired, prepared and confident going to the International Space Station (ISS), he said: 'Even stars are attainable.'
'The last few months have been nothing short of extraordinary, of discovery and unshakable resolve. From diverse systems to advanced platforms, across continents and cultures. This training has been intense but deeply rewarding,' he said.
He reiterated that he won't be carrying just instruments and equipment, but the 'hopes and dreams of a billion hearts', and said he will conduct seven Indian-designed experiments developed by research institutions from across the nation.
'These investigations will explore how microgravity affects everything from stem cell cultures to crop seeds, advancing India's footprint in space-based science. These experiments will pave the way for India's progress in microgravity science. And I am proud to be the bridge between Earth and orbit for this pioneering research,' he said.
'Joy' in Orbit
Ax-4 commander Peggy Whitson, stating that every mission is different as every crew brings something new to the table and that she has been incredibly impressed by the dedication, the work ethic, and the passion of her team, she said: '....
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And then, there's 'Joy'—the crew's chosen zero-gravity indicator, and a symbol of the cultural mosaic onboard.'
The swan, named Joy, represents 'Wisdom in India', 'Resilience in Poland', and 'Grace in Hungary'. 'More than just a companion, Joy will signal our arrival in microgravity shortly after launch. Through Joy, we'll celebrate our diversity and our unity in the shared journey of space exploration,' she said.
NID Souvenirs
The mission isn't just scientific. To mark India's artistic and cultural spirit, Shukla is carrying souvenirs crafted by students from the National Institute of Design — artefacts that represent the spirit of India. 'I carry them with deep pride.'
On whether he would have a live interaction with PM Modi from ISS, he said: '...We have several planned live events from orbit, including interactions with Indian VIPs, students, academia, and the space industry to share my experiences with people back home.'
Reiterating that India's first astronaut, Wing Commander (retd) Rakesh Sharma has been a great mentor, Shukla said: 'I am carrying something to honour him, but I cannot reveal it as I still haven't told him what it is and I want that to be a surprise.' Sharma won't be travelling to view the launch.
'I am carrying a few delicacies from India. We have a very rich culinary culture, so some of the items I'm bringing include mango nectar, moong dal halwa, and carrot halwa.
Some of these are my favorites, and I'm so happy to be able to carry them to share with my colleagues and the astronauts who are currently on the station,' Shukla said.
He called upon the youth of India to invest in the country's future in space. 'Space is not a distant dream, but a future they can shape… Bharat, with missions like Gaganyaan and space station, will need the young generation to be invested in space exploration. Hence, I call upon every Bharatvasi to join us, participate, engage and dream boldly,' he said.
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