Shubhanshu Shukla Set to Soar: Axiom-4 Mission Eyes June 25 Launch

Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla is preparing for a journey to the International Space Station as part of the Axiom-4 mission, now set for launch on June 25. NASA confirmed the schedule, highlighting the mission's significance as a return to space for India, Hungary, and Poland.

Originally planned for earlier dates, the mission faced several delays due to technical issues, including a liquid oxygen leak in the Falcon-9 rocket boosters and leaks in the International Space Station's ageing Russian module. These issues have since been addressed, setting the stage for a successful launch.

The mission, led by Commander Peggy Whitson, will depart from NASA's Kennedy Space Centre in Florida. The crew, which includes Shukla as the pilot, will travel aboard a new SpaceX Dragon spacecraft for docking with the ISS planned for June 26.

(With inputs from agencies.)