Reactions to Shubhanshu Shukla's historic Axiom-4 mission
On June 25, 2025, Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla became the first Indian in 41 years to reach the International Space Station (ISS), launching from NASA's Kennedy Space Center on a SpaceX Falcon 9 for Axiom Mission 4.
This marks a major step for India's space ambitions.
Shukla to run 7 experiments in microgravity
Shukla, who joins astronauts from the US, Poland, and Hungary, is spending about two weeks on the ISS.
He'll run seven Indian experiments on seeds, algae, and human health in microgravity—research that could shape farming and healthcare for future space missions.
Support has poured in for Shukla
From PM Modi saying Shukla carries "the hopes of 1.4 billion Indians," to Rakesh Sharma urging him to enjoy the view, support has poured in.
The President called it a win for science partnerships like NASA-ISRO; others see it as building on India's proud space legacy.
How to spot the ISS in the night sky
The ISS will streak across night skies through 2025—just check NASA's Spot the Station tool for when it'll be visible near you.
It's a cool way to feel connected with missions like Shukla's!