Ax-4 Mission: The eagerly awaited Ax-4 mission to the International Space Station (ISS), featuring Indian astronaut Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, has been postponed once more following technical findings linked to the ISS’s Zvezda module.
NASA shared news of the delay on its official social media channels, citing the need to prioritise safety.
Taking to X, NASA posted, “Together with @Axiom_Space, we are postponing the launch of #Ax4 to the @Space_Station. A new launch date will be provided once available. go.nasa.gov/43G287b”
India’s space agency, ISRO, also responded to the update, reiterating its commitment to safety and collaboration with global partners.
“ISRO is working closely with @Axiom_Space, @NASA, @SpaceX as they responsibly address the ISS Zvezda module observation causing the Ax‑4 delay. Safety and mission integrity remain our top priorities. With regards Dr. V.Narayanan Secretary DOS/Chairman ISRO & Chairman Space Commission.”
Operated by US firm Axiom Space, the Ax-4 mission was originally due to lift off from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida on 11 June at 8 AM local time (5:30 PM IST).
It has experienced a series of postponements, with prior launch dates set for 29 May, 8 June, and 10 June.
The mission marks a significant milestone for India, as Group Captain Shukla will likely become the first Indian astronaut to reach the ISS and only the second Indian to travel to space, following Rakesh Sharma’s landmark flight in 1984.
Shukla will serve as the mission’s pilot, joining US Commander Peggy Whitson.
The crew also includes mission specialists Slawosz Uznanski-Wisniewski from Poland and Tibor Kapu of Hungary.
During his time aboard the ISS, Shukla will carry out innovative research focused on food and space nutrition.
These scientific activities were developed through a partnership between ISRO and India’s Department of Biotechnology (DBT). The initiative also received support from NASA. The goal is to advance knowledge in sustainable life-support systems – a key factor for future long-duration space missions.
The international team will announce a revised launch date once they resolve the technical issues.
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