The atmosphere was electric with anticipation as Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla embarked on his historic journey to the International Space Station (ISS) as part of the Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4). Lifts off from NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the mission marks India's return to space after a gap of 41 years, since Rakesh Sharma's voyage in 1984.

Shukla's journey is more than just a personal achievement; it's a moment of national pride and a significant step forward for India's space program. Visuals from his residence in Lucknow showed decorations and celebrations, reflecting the excitement felt across the country. Posters of Shukla have also appeared in his hometown, illustrating the widespread support and enthusiasm for his mission.

The Axiom-4 mission is a collaborative effort between NASA, Axiom Space, SpaceX, ISRO, and the European Space Agency. Leading the mission is Commander Peggy Whitson from the US, with Shukla serving as the pilot. Hungarian astronaut Tibor Kapu and Poland's Slawosz Uznanski-Wisniewski are also on board as mission specialists. The crew will travel in the SpaceX Crew Dragon capsule, propelled by a Falcon 9 rocket. Docking with the ISS is expected.

Shukla, an Indian Air Force pilot, has been preparing for this mission for a long time, drawing inspiration from Rakesh Sharma's pioneering journey. He is carrying not only scientific instruments but also personal items. He is carrying mango nectar, carrot halwa, and moong dal halwa into space, planning to share these treats with his fellow astronauts aboard the ISS. Additionally, he is carrying a secret souvenir for Rakesh Sharma, who he considers his mentor.

The Ax-4 mission aims to conduct approximately 60 scientific experiments during its two-week duration, including seven designed by ISRO. This mission holds particular significance for India, Hungary, and Poland, as it represents their first missions to the space station. Furthermore, it is the second government-sponsored human spaceflight for all three nations.

Shukla's journey is seen by ISRO as a crucial stepping stone towards India's first crewed mission, Gaganyaan, planned for 2027. It underscores India's growing capabilities and ambitions in space exploration.

In a statement from space, Shukla conveyed his patriotism, stating, "The tricolor on my shoulder reminds me that India stands with me. I want all my countrymen to be part of this journey. Jai Hind, Jai Bharat."