Fri Jun 20 01:26:56 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary of the text and a news article rewrite, suitable for publication in “The Hindu” based on the provided snippets.
**Summary:**
The article reports that NASA has postponed the launch of the Axiom-4 mission, which includes Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla. The mission to the International Space Station is delayed due to the need for further evaluation of ISS operations following recent repair work on the Zvezda service module. A new launch date will be announced soon.
**News Article:**
**Axiom-4 Mission Launch, Featuring Indian Astronaut, Delayed by NASA**
*New Delhi, June 20, 2025* – NASA has announced a delay in the launch of the Axiom-4 mission to the International Space Station (ISS). The mission, which includes Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla alongside Commander Peggy Whitson (U.S.), Mission Specialist Slawosz Uznanski-Wisniewski (Poland), and Mission Specialist Tibor Kapu (Hungary), was originally scheduled for Sunday, June 22, 2025.
“NASA has made the decision to stand down from a launch on Sunday, June 22, and will target a new launch date in the coming days,” Axiom Space said in a statement released early today.
The delay stems from the need for additional evaluation of ISS operations following recent repair work on the Zvezda service module, located in the aft (back) segment of the orbital laboratory. The space agency stated that the interdependent nature of the ISS systems necessitates careful review of data to ensure the station’s readiness for the arrival of the Axiom-4 crew.
“Because of the space station’s interconnected and interdependent systems, NASA wants to ensure the station is ready for additional crew members, and the agency is taking the time necessary to review data,” according to Axiom Space.
The delay comes as a disappointment to the Indian space community, who were eagerly anticipating Shukla’s journey to the ISS. This mission will mark another significant step for India’s growing presence in space exploration. A new launch date is expected to be announced by NASA in the coming days.