Axiom-4 Mission: India Celebrates Space Milestone as Shukla Embarks on ISS Research, Yuvraj Singh Hails "Historic Moment"

The successful launch of the Axiom-4 mission has been met with widespread celebration across India, signaling a significant moment in the nation's space exploration endeavors. Former cricketer Yuvraj Singh echoed the national pride in a touching message.

Yuvraj Singh and Shubhanshu Shukla (Agency Photos)

"As Group Captain Shukla lifted off into space, he carried with him not just the hopes of a nation, but the strength of every Indian who dares to dream big. This is a moment we’ll remember for generations,” he stated, highlighting the profound impact of the mission.

This mission represents a pivotal resurgence for India in human spaceflight, occurring 41 years after Rakesh Sharma's historic journey.

Blasting off from NASA’s Kennedy Space Centre in Florida this Wednesday, the SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket transported Indian Air Force Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, accompanied by astronauts from Hungary, Poland, and the United States.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also conveyed his congratulations, emphasizing that Shukla embodies the aspirations of 1.4 billion Indians.

“We welcome the successful launch of the Space Mission carrying astronauts from India, Hungary, Poland and the US. The Indian Astronaut, Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla is on the way to become the first Indian to go to International Space Station. He carries with him the wishes, hopes and aspirations of 1.4 billion Indians. Wish him and other astronauts all the success!” he shared on X.

The astronauts are scheduled to spend 14 days aboard the International Space Station (ISS), where they will conduct over 60 scientific experiments.

Addressing the nation from the spacecraft “Grace,” Shukla shared an emotional message: “Namaskar, my dear countrymen. We have reached space after 41 years. It was a great ride.”

Orbiting the Earth at 7.5 km per second, Shukla proudly displayed the Indian tricolor on his suit, symbolizing the unity and spirit of the nation. He voiced his hope that this mission would ignite curiosity and inspire a new generation of Indian space explorers.

“This isn’t just my journey -- it’s India’s journey into the future of human spaceflight,” he affirmed.

Shukla’s mission has already begun to redefine India's position in the realm of space exploration, marking a new era for the nation.