India’s Gaganyatri to Conduct Groundbreaking Microgravity Experiments on Axiom-4 Mission
By Kishan Baraiya
Published on May 31, 2025
In a historic leap for India’s space program, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is gearing up for the Axiom-4 (Ax-4) mission, set to launch no earlier than June 8, 2025, from the Kennedy Space Centre in Florida. Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, an Indian Air Force officer and ISRO’s designated Gaganyatri, will pilot this mission, becoming the first Indian astronaut to visit the International Space Station (ISS). This 14-day mission, a collaborative effort between ISRO, NASA, Axiom Space, and the European Space Agency (ESA), marks a significant milestone for India’s space ambitions and its Gaganyaan project, slated for 2026.
A Mission of Scientific Discovery
During the Ax-4 mission, Shukla will conduct seven carefully curated microgravity research experiments, selected from proposals by Indian principal investigators from various national research labs and academic institutions. These experiments, spanning human health, biotechnology, and material research, aim to address challenges in space exploration while offering potential benefits for life on Earth. Key experiments include studying the impact of microgravity on edible microalgae for space agriculture, crew nutrition, and the biological processes of microorganisms in space conditions. Additionally, Shukla will perform five human factors experiments in collaboration with NASA, showcasing the strength of this international partnership.
Why This Mission Matters
The Ax-4 mission is more than a scientific endeavor; it’s a critical step toward preparing for India’s first manned space mission, Gaganyaan. Shukla’s experience living in space, conducting experiments, and adhering to global safety standards will provide ISRO with invaluable insights. The mission, costing India ₹550 crore, is designed to test technologies essential for Gaganyaan, including systems for food, oxygen, and crew health. By working alongside NASA and ESA, ISRO is aligning its protocols with world-class standards, ensuring a robust foundation for future missions.
The Crew and the Journey
Shukla, nicknamed “Shucks,” will serve as the pilot under the command of Peggy Whitson, a seasoned NASA veteran and Axiom Space’s director of human spaceflight. The crew includes ESA astronauts, and Group Captain Prasanth Balakrishnan Nair will serve as the backup pilot. Launched aboard SpaceX’s Falcon-9 rocket and Dragon spacecraft, the team will dock at the ISS to conduct their experiments and engage in global outreach activities, including connecting with the amateur radio community in India.
A Boost for India’s Space Ecosystem
The Ax-4 mission is expected to foster a microgravity research ecosystem in India, paving the way for advanced experiments in the Indian Space Programme. ISRO plans to capture videos of these experiments for educational outreach, inspiring the next generation of scientists and engineers. As Shukla stated at Axiom Space’s send-off event, “This is the journey of 1.4 billion people,” encapsulating the mission’s significance for India’s aspirations in space.
Looking Ahead
The Ax-4 mission underscores India’s growing presence in global space exploration. With the Gaganyaan project on the horizon, Shukla’s journey to the ISS is a bold step toward establishing India as a key player in human spaceflight. As the nation watches, this mission promises to deliver scientific breakthroughs and national pride.
Stay tuned to kishanbaraiya.com for more updates on India’s space journey and other exciting developments!
Source: Hindustan Times