AXIOM-4 MISSION
- The AXIOM-4 mission is organized by Texas-based startup Axiom Space in collaboration with SpaceX.
- It marks NASA’s fourth all-private astronaut mission to the International Space Station (ISS).
- The international crew includes astronauts from the USA, India, Poland, and Hungary.
- Shubhanshu Shukla will become the second Indian national to travel to space since 1984.
- Rakesh Sharma was the first Indian to go to space, flying aboard the Soviet Union’s Soyuz spacecraft in 1984.
- The mission involves cooperation between Axiom Space, NASA, the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO), and the European Space Agency (ESA).
- The astronauts will spend 14 days aboard the ISS conducting microgravity experiments, technology demonstrations, and public outreach activities.
- The mission aims to advance knowledge of biological processes in microgravity and help develop strategies for future long-duration space missions.
- The scientific research is expected to contribute significantly to progress in space science and technology, while also inspiring young Indian scientists and engineers.
- It reinforces India's growing presence in the space sector and reflects the nation's commitment to global scientific development.
