Wed Jun 25 06:30:00 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary and news article based on the provided text:
**Summary:**
Indian Air Force Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla has launched on the Axiom-4 mission to the International Space Station (ISS). This makes him the first Indian to visit the ISS and the second Indian ever in space after Rakesh Sharma. Shukla expressed his admiration for Sharma and hopes his mission will inspire future generations in India. He is part of the Axiom-4 mission, a private aerospace venture, and will spend 14 days on the ISS. The launch was delayed several times due to technical issues.
**News Article:**
**India Celebrates Historic Space Milestone: Shubhanshu Shukla Launches to ISS**
**KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, USA –** India has marked a new chapter in its space exploration endeavors as Indian Air Force Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla launched to the International Space Station (ISS) on Wednesday. Shukla becomes the first Indian ever to visit the ISS and the second Indian to journey into space, following in the footsteps of Rakesh Sharma, who flew aboard a Soviet spacecraft in 1984.
The launch, part of the Axiom-4 mission, took place from the Kennedy Space Center in the United States. The mission, operated by private aerospace company Axiom Space, experienced several delays due to technical challenges, but finally commenced after the issues were resolved.
In a video message prior to the launch, Group Captain Shukla expressed his deep admiration for Rakesh Sharma, saying he grew up reading about him in school and that Sharma served as a role model. “I feel lucky and fortunate to have this opportunity,” Shukla said. “Flying has always been a dream of mine.”
The spacecraft is expected to dock with the ISS on Thursday at approximately 4:30 PM. Shukla and his fellow crew members will spend 14 days on the orbiting laboratory conducting research and experiments.
Shukla also expressed his hope that his mission would inspire young people in India to pursue their dreams and foster a sense of curiosity about space exploration. “I hope this mission sparks curiosity in children to change their lives,” he stated.
This mission represents a significant achievement for India in the realm of space exploration and underscores the growing role of private companies in the future of space travel.
First Piper 