**India Celebrates Historic Space Mission as Astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla Launches to ISS**
India marked a historic milestone as Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla became the country’s first astronaut to venture into space in 41 years, following Rakesh Sharma’s 1984 mission. The Axiom-4 (Ax-4) mission, launched from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, carries a multinational crew, including former NASA astronaut Peggy Whitson, Poland’s Slawosz Uznanski-Wisniewski, and Hungary’s Tibor Kapu. Shukla, piloting the mission, will be the first Indian to visit the International Space Station (ISS), a significant step for India’s burgeoning space ambitions. The mission, a collaboration between NASA, ISRO, ESA, and SpaceX, has generated immense excitement in India, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailing it as a proud moment for the nation.
**A Leap Forward for India’s Space Program**
The 39-year-old Shukla, an experienced Indian Air Force pilot, was selected among four candidates for India’s upcoming human spaceflight program, Gaganyaan, scheduled for 2027. His journey aboard the SpaceX Crew Dragon capsule is a strategic move by ISRO, which invested 5 billion rupees ($59 million) for his seat and training. The mission aims to provide critical experience ahead of India’s plans to establish its own space station by 2035 and send an astronaut to the Moon by 2040. Shukla’s emotional message from orbit, expressing pride in carrying the Indian flag, resonated deeply with citizens, sparking nationwide celebrations. His parents, along with students in Lucknow, watched the launch live, applauding as the rocket soared into space.
**Scientific Contributions and Future Aspirations**
During his stay on the ISS, Shukla will participate in scientific experiments and gain invaluable insights to support India’s future manned missions. His journey symbolizes a new era for India’s space exploration, inspiring millions. In a recent press conference, Shukla described the experience as transformative, urging Indians to join him in this historic endeavor. The successful launch not only revives India’s human spaceflight legacy but also strengthens international partnerships in space exploration. As Shukla orbits Earth at 7.5 km per second, his mission paves the way for India’s next giant leap into the cosmos.
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