Shubhanshu Shukla Carrying Aspirations Of 1.4 Billion Indians: PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi sent his wishes to Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla who has embarked on a historic journey to the International Space Station (ISS) as part of Axiom Space's commercial mission.

Accompanied by three other astronauts, Shukla is set to become the first Indian to visit the ISS. Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his congratulations, highlighting the significance of this mission for India.

In a post on X, PM Modi, said, "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!"

The Axiom-4 mission launched from Kennedy Space Centre in Florida at 12:01 pm IST. This event was celebrated worldwide, with watch parties including one at Shukla's City Montessori School in Lucknow. His parents were present to witness this momentous occasion. The mission also includes astronauts from Hungary, Poland, and the United States.

Historic Journey to the ISS

Shukla's journey marks a significant milestone for India, coming 41 years after Rakesh Sharma's space voyage in 1984. Sharma had spent eight days aboard the Soviet Union's Salyut-7 space station. In a video message, Sharma sent his best wishes to Shukla and his team, saying, "Greetings from India.. have a fun time guys."

The targeted docking time for the spacecraft is approximately 4:30 pm IST on Thursday, June 26. NASA confirmed this schedule in an official statement. This mission signifies a return to space for India, Hungary, and Poland.

Astronauts' Messages and Mission Details

From aboard the Dragon spacecraft, Shukla expressed his excitement about being back in space after 41 years. He said, "Namaskar, my dear countrymen, what a ride. We are back in space once again after 41 years." He shared that they are orbiting Earth at 7.5 kilometres per second and emphasised India's pride in this achievement.

Shukla also mentioned that this mission is not just about reaching the ISS but initiating India's Human Space Programme. He encouraged everyone to feel proud and excited about this journey and invited them to be part of it with him.

Significance of Axiom-4 Mission

This mission offers Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla an opportunity to follow in the footsteps of Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma. Sharma had flown aboard Soyuz T-11 on April 3, 1984, as part of the Soviet Interkosmos programme and spent seven days on Salyut 7 space station.

Prime Minister Modi expressed his support through a post on X: "We welcome the successful launch of the Space Mission carrying astronauts from India, Hungary, Poland and the US." He wished success for Shukla and his fellow astronauts as they carry forward hopes and aspirations of over a billion Indians.

With inputs from PTI