WATCH Live: Shubhanshu Shukla’s Ax-4 Mission Nears Docking With ISS
Shukla becomes the second Indian to travel to space and the first to reach the International Space Station
Axiom-4 Mission Live: Shubhanshu Shukla has etched his name in history as he embarked on a 14-day space mission aboard the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft, launching from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. He becomes the second Indian to travel to space and the first to reach the International Space Station (ISS). Stay tuned for live updates from this landmark mission, unfolding 400 kilometers above Earth.
The Dragon spacecraft is now just 1,900 meters away from the International Space Station (ISS), having completed most of its trajectory. It is preparing to enter the approach ellipse—the designated safe zone around the ISS for final docking maneuvers.
All four astronauts have successfully completed leak checks on their spacesuits, confirming everything is in order and on schedule for docking with the space-facing port of the ISS’s Harmony module.
What Is Docking
Docking will occur when the Dragon spacecraft gently connects with the International Space Station’s docking port, with onboard sensors confirming proper alignment. Once aligned, locking mechanisms will activate to securely attach the spacecraft to the ISS. A cable connection will then be established, enabling Dragon to switch over to the station’s power, communication, and data systems. Next, the pressurization process will begin in the vestibule—the space between the two vehicles—which will be carefully monitored for any leaks. Once pressure is equalized and safety checks are complete, the ISS hatch will open first, followed by Dragon’s.
Before the crew enters, the area will be checked for debris and air circulation will be established. Only then will the astronauts move into the ISS, officially beginning their stay aboard the station.
PM Modi Congratulates Astronauts
PM Modi congratulated the astronauts on the successful space mission launch. He said, “We welcome the successful launch of the space mission carrying astronauts from India, Hungary, Poland, and the United States,” said Prime Minister Narendra Modi, celebrating the international collaboration.
Highlighting the significance of the moment, he added, “Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla is on his way to becoming the first Indian to reach the International Space Station. He carries with him the hopes, dreams, and aspirations of 1.4 billion Indians.”
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