The mission is organized by Texas-based startup Axiom Space in partnership with SpaceX.
- It is NASA’s fourth all private astronaut mission to the International Space Station.
- The crew includes members from the USA, India, Poland, and Hungary.
- Shubhanshu Shukla will be India’s second national astronaut to go to space since 1984.
- Rakesh Sharma was the last Indian to go to space when he travelled to space in 1984 onboard the erstwhile Soviet Union’s Soyuz spacecraft.
About Axiom 4
- The mission is a collaboration involving Axiom Space (private company), the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO), and European Space Agency (ESA).
- The crew members will spend 14 days onboard the ISS conducting microgravity research, technology demonstrations, and outreach engagements.
Significance for India
- Enhance understanding of biological processes in microgravity and develop strategies for long-duration space missions.
- The scientific experiments will drive significant advancements in space science and technology, inspiring the next generation of Indian scientists and engineers.
- Strengthens India's presence in space and promotes the country's dedication to contributing to global scientific progress.
About the International Space Station (ISS)
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