India’s leap toward the stars: ISRO chief hails historic Axiom Mission as prelude to Gaganyaan

India is on the brink of a transformative moment in its space odyssey. With Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla set to soar into space aboard SpaceX’s Crew Dragon on June 8, ISRO Chairman Dr. V. Narayanan has declared the mission as the beginning of India’s future in space.

Dubbed Axiom Mission 4, this international expedition to the International Space Station (ISS) — featuring astronauts from India, Poland, and Hungary — marks India’s first private participation in a crewed spaceflight and a critical prelude to the nation’s ambitious Gaganyaan program.

“Right now, the training of the Gaganyatri is in its final phase. Everything is complete—we are waiting for the mission to happen,” Dr. Narayanan confirmed.

The mission comes nearly seven years after Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s landmark 2018 Independence Day announcement of India’s maiden human spaceflight initiative. For a country that has mastered launching satellites and rockets, human spaceflight represents a bold new frontier—one that demands human-centric expertise and deep operational insight.

Confidence in falcon 9 and crew dragon

Addressing questions on safety, Dr. Narayanan expressed full faith in the SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket and Crew Dragon capsule.

“They’ve undergone sufficient testing. Enough Falcon 9 launches have happened. I am fully confident. It’s the right vehicle. But as with any space mission, we wait for D-Day to see it through.”

From 1984 to now: A vision reignited

Dr. Narayanan reflected on India’s lone manned spaceflight in 1984 — when Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma flew aboard a Soviet mission — and underscored how today’s effort builds on that legacy.

“Sharmaji is actively involved with us. He shares critical insights and the challenges he faced. This mission is a realization of our Hon’ble Prime Minister’s vision: why not send one of our Gaganyatris to the ISS?”

Mission benefits: A crucible of experience

The Axiom mission, he emphasized, is more than a flight—it’s a strategic training ground.

“Our Gaganyatri is undergoing intense, international-grade training. He will work alongside seasoned astronauts, perform nine experiments, and manage mission systems. This is vital experience that can’t be simulated on Earth.”

A justified investment in India’s future

On concerns over the cost of the mission, Dr. Narayanan responded with conviction and context.

“Let’s not equate this to a bus ticket. Think of the emotional leap—from bullock carts in 1947 to buses, to planes. This is that next step. Yes, it’s worth it. The confidence and learning we’ll gain are priceless.”

Shubhanshu Shukla: India's flag-bearer in orbit

On the selection of Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, the ISRO chief voiced absolute trust. “He’s young, dynamic, and highly competent. I interact with him regularly. I’m fully satisfied with the choice.”

He also acknowledged the excellence of the backup astronaut, Group Captain Prashant Nair. “Both were outstanding. But only one can go. The choice was based on a range of factors.”