Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla has successfully launched on the Axiom-4 mission, marking India's return to space after 41 years. The mission, a collaborative effort between NASA, Axiom Space, SpaceX, ISRO, and the European Space Agency, lifted off from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Shukla, an Indian Air Force pilot, is only the second Indian to journey into space, following Rakesh Sharma's mission in 1984, and the first to visit the International Space Station (ISS).

The Axiom-4 mission is a 14-day private endeavor to the ISS, with Shukla serving as the pilot. The crew also includes veteran astronaut Peggy Whitson (Axiom Space), mission specialist Slawosz Uznanski-Wisniewski (ESA), and mission specialist Tibor Kapu (Hungary). The SpaceX Dragon spacecraft is expected to dock with the ISS after a 28-hour journey.

Shukla's participation in the Axiom-4 mission holds immense significance for India's space program. During his time on the ISS, he will oversee seven microgravity experiments designed by Indian researchers. This mission provides critical operational experience for India's Gaganyaan program, the nation's first human spaceflight mission, slated for 2027, and contributes to the long-term vision of sustained space presence.

Shukla's journey to space has been met with widespread celebrations across India. His family watched the launch live from Lucknow, expressing their joy and pride. Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated the team and wished them success and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh stated that the country is proud of Shubhanshu Shukla.

Shukla's career as a pilot in the Indian Air Force has been nothing short of stellar. Born in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, he was commissioned into the IAF fighter wing in June 2006. As a seasoned test pilot and combat leader, he has accumulated over 2,000 hours of flight experience across a variety of aircraft, including the Su-30 MKI, MiG-21, MiG-29, Jaguar, Hawk, Dornier, and An-32. His selection for the Gaganyaan mission in 2020 and subsequent training at the Yuri Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Center in Russia underscore his exceptional skills and dedication.

While the nation celebrates this achievement, questions have been raised regarding the financial investment in Axiom-4, with some asking about the rationale behind spending ₹548 crore for Shukla's seat. However, officials have noted that the mission provides invaluable insights into human spaceflight operations and coordination, benefitting the Gaganyaan program, regardless of the cost.

The Axiom-4 mission marks not only a personal milestone for Shubhanshu Shukla but also a significant step forward for India's presence in space. With plans to send national astronauts to the ISS and also work towards the Gaganyaan mission in the coming years.