Delay in Launch of Indian Astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla's Axiom Mission to ISS

Launch Delayed for Indian Astronaut's Mission

The launch of Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla to the International Space Station (ISS) has faced a third delay. Axiom Space announced on Thursday that the previously scheduled launch date of June 22 has been postponed. Initially set for June 11, the mission was first pushed back to June 19 due to detected leaks during booster inspections. The subsequent date of June 22 has now also been altered.

Official Statements from Agencies

According to a statement from the ISS, "@NASA, @Axiom Space, and @SpaceX are currently reviewing launch opportunities for Axiom Mission 4. NASA has decided to stand down from the launch on Sunday, June 22, and will announce a new target date shortly."

Axiom Space indicated that a new launch date will be revealed soon, as the agency requires more time to assess ISS operations following recent repairs to the Zvezda service module's rear segment.

"NASA, Axiom Space, and SpaceX are continuing to evaluate launch opportunities for Axiom Mission 4 to the ISS. NASA has opted to postpone the launch on June 22 and will set a new date in the coming days," Axiom Space stated.

"The agency needs extra time to further assess ISS operations after the recent repairs in the Zvezda service module's rear segment. Given the interconnected systems of the space station, NASA aims to ensure it is fully prepared for additional crew members, taking the necessary time to review all data," they added.

Importantly, the Ax-4 crew comprises members from India, Poland, and Hungary, marking the first mission to the ISS for each of these nations and the second government-sponsored human spaceflight mission in over four decades. The Ax-4 mission includes approximately 60 scientific studies and activities from 31 countries, including the U.S., India, Poland, Hungary, Saudi Arabia, Brazil, Nigeria, the UAE, and various European nations. This mission is noted for its extensive research and scientific endeavors conducted aboard the ISS.

Profile of Shubhanshu Shukla

Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla is a Test Pilot and Astronaut with the Indian Air Force. Hailing from Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, he completed his education at City Montessori School. Inspired by the Kargil War in 1999, he pursued the UPSC exams and successfully cleared them. He completed his military training and obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science from the National Defence Academy in 2005.