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The International Space Station (ISS) is a giant laboratory in space built by multiple countries and space agencies working together. It orbits around Earth and is used to learn more about space and enable long-term space exploration. For the first time ever, two Indian astronauts will travel to the ISS in the Axiom-4 mission set to launch in October this year.
The Axiom mission started when NASA decided to shift its focus from solely leading space operations in low Earth orbit to creating a commercial ecosystem instead. After three private crew missions featuring astronauts from US, Canada, Israel, Saudi Arabia, Turkey & Sweden, the 4th crew will consist of two homegrown astronauts. During their time aboard the International Space Station (ISS), the crew will conduct scientific experiments, perform technology demonstrations, and engage in educational outreach.
India has its own version of the private spaceflight mission by ISRO called the Gaganyaan project which aims to send Indian astronauts to low-earth orbit for a short duration, onboard an Indian launch vehicle sometime next year. The fact that Indian Astronauts were selected for the Axiom 4 mission sets an important precedent. The mission promises to yield invaluable data on the complexities of human spaceflight, from physiological adaptations to technological innovations. Such insights will not only bolster India's position as a spacefaring nation and help us prepare for it, but also catalyze the growth of a robust commercial space sector, inspiring future generations to reach for the stars.
The mission is designed to foster commercial activities in space, demonstrating the potential for business and innovation in Earth's lower orbits. By bringing together a diverse crew from different nations, the fourth edition, Ax-4 aims to strengthen global partnerships in space exploration. Moreover, the microgravity environment of the ISS will serve as a unique laboratory for conducting experiments in fields such as materials science, biology, and Earth observation.
Against this backdrop of scientific exploration and commercial enterprise, ISRO has selected Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla and Group Captain Prasanth Balakrishnan Nair to represent India on the Ax-4 mission. They will be the first Indian Astronauts to journey to the ISS. Both officers are highly experienced pilots with impeccable records in the Indian Air Force. Originally from Lucknow, Shubhanshu, a fighter combat leader and test pilot with over 2000 hours of flight time, has been designated the prime mission pilot. Kerala-born Prasanth, a decorated officer with more than 3000 hours of flying experience, will serve as the backup. Their selection is a landmark event that highlights India's growing expertise in human spaceflight and its commitment to international collaboration.
These two Gaganyatris (astronauts) will undergo intensive training in the United States before embarking on their mission. Their participation in Ax-4 is a significant step forward for India's space program and stands ais a symbol of India's ambition to explore the frontiers of space and contribute to the global scientific community.
