New Delhi: In a landmark achievement that echoes India’s ambition to become a Viksit Bharat, Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh lauded the Axiom-4 Mission as a defining moment in India’s ascent as a global space power. Addressing a spirited audience during a live screening at Bhatnagar Auditorium, Anusandhan Bhavan, the Minister called the launch “a historic step in India’s evolution from technology follower to frontliner in space exploration.”
The mission saw Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, an Indian astronaut and Air Force officer, lift off as the Mission Pilot of a four-member international crew headed to the International Space Station (ISS). The audience, comprising senior scientists, diplomats, and dignitaries, erupted in applause as visuals of the successful launch flashed across the screen.
🇮🇳 India Fulfilling Sarabhai’s Vision Under PM Modi
Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasized that the Axiom-4 launch represents the realization of the vision of ISRO pioneers Dr. Vikram Sarabhai and Satish Dhawan, now actualized through the bold reforms and visionary leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi.
“These are the outcomes of systemic transformation in India’s space policy. What was once a distant dream is now a live reality,” said the Minister, highlighting how structural reforms under PM Modi have opened India’s space sector to private participation and global collaboration.
🛰 Indigenous Science on a Global Platform
A highlight of the mission is the deployment of India-developed experiment kits onboard the ISS. Designed by top Indian institutions like IITs, IISc, and the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), these kits will be used by Group Captain Shukla to conduct cutting-edge experiments in microgravity.
“These experiments are centered on nutrient-rich edible microalgae, which offer high protein, lipid, and bioactive compound content,” said Dr. Jitendra Singh. “This sustainable food source is ideal for long-duration space missions, including those planned under India’s upcoming Gaganyaan program.”
The biotech studies will explore the impact of microgravity and cosmic radiation on the growth and viability of algae, offering insights critical to human survival in deep space and the sustainability of interplanetary missions.
🕒 Mission Timeline and Docking
The Axiom-4 spacecraft is scheduled to dock with the International Space Station (ISS) on 26th June 2025 at approximately 7:00 AM EDT (4:30 PM IST). The crew will remain on the station to carry out experiments and conduct joint operations, symbolizing India’s active contribution to global science and exploration.
🌍 Diplomacy Meets Science
The live launch screening at Anusandhan Bhavan was attended by distinguished guests, including:
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Her Excellency Frances Adamson AC, Governor of South Australia
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Mr. Philip Green, Australian High Commissioner to India
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Dr. N. Kalaiselvi, Director General, CSIR
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Dr. M. Ravichandran, Secretary, Ministry of Earth Sciences
Their presence reflects India’s growing international credibility in space diplomacy and its position as a trusted scientific partner.
🌌 A Giant Leap for India’s Space Sector
The Axiom-4 Mission not only symbolizes technological and scientific advancement but also reinforces India’s emergence as a key player in space innovation and sustainability. It adds momentum to the country’s broader goals under “Viksit Bharat 2047”, creating new frontiers for collaboration, innovation, and inspiration.
As Dr. Jitendra Singh concluded, “India is no longer watching the stars—we are reaching for them.”
For more details, check press release on PIB website.
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