NASA gives ISRO’s Gaganyaan Astronaut a hands-on experience with SPACEX’s Dragon Spacecraft

By R Anil Kumar

New Delhi, October 21.

SPACE MISSION TRAINING: Indian Astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla has started his work on journey towards space mission as part of the Axiom Space AX-4 mission with a recent visit to SpaceX headquarters, marking his first interaction with the Dragon Spacecraft.

Suit Measurements and Pressurisation Test: Shubhanshu Shukla along with his AX-4 Crewmates, underwent suit measurements and pressurisation tests at SpaceX headquarters essential for ensuring Astronaut safety and comfort during Space travel.

Led by Veteran Astronaut Peggy Whitson: NASA Astronaut Peggy Whitson, leading the AX-4 Crew, shared that the crew has completed a comprehensive onboarding process in Houston, before visiting SpaceX. She stated that the training for the AX-4 mission has officially begun.

Introduction to SpaceX Dragon Spacecraft: During their visit to SpaceX the AX-4 crew, including Shukla was introduced to the Dragon Spacecraft. This Spacecraft is designed for  crewed missions to the International Space Station (ISS), and is an integral part of the AX-4 mission.

Mission to the International Space Station: As part of the AX-4 mission, Shubhanshu Shukla, an Indian Air Force (IAF), Officer, is expected to spend around 10-days aboard the ISS, where he will conduct various scientific experiments and research activities.

Part of a new era in Commercial  Spaceflight: The Axiom Space missions, like the AX-4, represent a new phase in Commercial Spaceflight, providing opportunities for private citizens and researchers to access the International Space Station and its microgravity environment.

Partnership with SpaceX and NASA: AX-4 marks the Fourth mission organised by Axiom Space in partnership with SpaceX and NASA. SpaceX’s Dragon Spacecraft continues to be used for these missions while NASA awaits the operational status of Boeing’s Starliner.

On going training for Shubhanshu Shukla and Crew: As training progresses, Shubhanshu Shukla and his fellow crew members will continue familiarise themselves with the Dragon Spacecraft and the complex systems of the International Space Station in preparation for their mission.

What is Axiom 4 mission: Axiom 4, or AX-4 is a private Spaceflight to the International Space Station planned to be launched sometime in 2025 and lasts about 2 weeks in ISS, it will be operated by Axiom Space and uses a  SpaceX crew Dragon Spacecraft.

The Spacecraft will be launched from the Kennedy Space Center LC 39-A, in Florida on a Falcon-9 rocket.

AX-4 represents Axiom Space’s continued efforts to build opportunities for Countries to research, innovate, test and engage with people around the world, while in Low Earth Orbit (LEO).

(With Inputs from NASA and AXIOM SPACE)