India's Shubhanshu Shukla to Embark on Historic Space Mission on June 10 🚀🇮🇳
Mission Delayed Again, Now Set for June 10🗓️
Axiom Space Inc has announced a new launch date for the much-anticipated Ax-4 mission. Originally scheduled for May 29 and then June 8, the mission will now lift off on **June 10 at 8:22 AM EST** from NASA's Kennedy Space Center, Florida. The flight will send Indian Air Force Group Captain **Shubhanshu Shukla** into space, making him only the second Indian to do so since **Rakesh Sharma** in 1984.
Shukla Follows in the Footsteps of a National Hero👨🚀
The 39-year-old test pilot credits Sharma, also an Air Force veteran and test pilot, as a mentor. “He understands the journey and background I come from,” said Shukla in a virtual press conference. Inspired by Sharma since childhood, Shukla is now realizing a lifelong dream.
🇮🇳 India Returns to Human Spaceflight After 40 Years
This mission marks India’s first return to crewed spaceflight in four decades. Shukla applied to ISRO’s Human Spaceflight Programme after Prime Minister Modi announced the **Gaganyaan mission** in 2018. Although not part of Gaganyaan, Shukla remains one of its top contenders.
A Special Gift & Space Treats🎁
Shukla will carry a **surprise gift for Rakesh Sharma**, which he plans to hand over personally upon return. For himself, he’s packing his favorite space snacks: **mango nectar**, **moong halwa**, and **carrot halwa**.
An International Team with Historic Firsts🌍
Shukla will join:
- **Peggy Whitson (USA)**: Former NASA astronaut, mission commander
- **Sławosz Uznański (Poland)**: Second Polish astronaut since 1978
- **Tibor Kapu (Hungary)**: Second Hungarian astronaut since 1980
The mission is monumental for all three nations, each rejoining human spaceflight after more than four decades and visiting the **International Space Station (ISS)** for the first time.
Meet Joy: The Zero-G Swan🦢
Adding a whimsical touch, the crew introduced **Joy**, a plush swan that will act as the mission’s **Zero Gravity indicator**. Joy symbolizes **wisdom** (India), **resilience** (Poland), and **grace** (Hungary).
Scientific Goals & Educational Outreach🔬
During the 14-day mission, Shukla will conduct **seven experiments**, including:
- Microgravity’s effect on **edible microalgae**
- Human interaction with **electronic displays in space**
He will also engage in **live interactions** with students, academic institutions, and space professionals from orbit.
Final Preparations: Quarantine Begins🛡️
The entire crew began a **two-week quarantine** in Florida starting May 26 to ensure peak health before liftoff.
A Proud Moment for India🌟
With this mission, **India reasserts its presence** in human space exploration. As Shukla prepares to lift off, the nation watches with pride and hope, remembering the legacy of Sharma while looking forward to a new era of space achievements.
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