Celebrations erupt as Shubhanshu Shukla embarks on Axiom-4 mission
Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla just became the first Indian to board the International Space Station, launching with Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4) on June 25, 2025.
This is a big moment for India's space program—only its second human spaceflight since 1984.
Shukla training for India's Gaganyaan mission
Shukla is piloting Ax-4 alongside astronauts from Poland and Hungary. The crew will spend two weeks on the ISS doing science experiments involving 31 nations.
He's also training for India's upcoming Gaganyaan mission, showing how far India has come in human spaceflight.
Ax-4 mission details
Ax-4 highlights international teamwork in space, with former NASA astronaut Peggy Whitson leading the crew.
President Murmu and PM Modi both called it a proud achievement for India.
The IAF and Shukla's family say his determination made this possible.
How to spot the ISS in the sky
You can actually see the ISS as a bright dot moving quickly across the sky just before dawn or after sunset.
Check NASA's "Spot the Station" tool to find out when it'll be visible where you live—it's a cool way to feel connected to this milestone!