Thu Jun 26 07:41:49 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary and a news article rewrite of the provided text, aimed at capturing the Indian perspective as suggested by the source “The Hindu.”
**Summary:**
Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla, part of the Axiom-4 commercial mission, has successfully launched into space aboard the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft “Grace” and is en route to the International Space Station (ISS). Shukla shared his initial experiences via video link, describing the launch as an “amazing ride” and the transition to microgravity as surreal. He likened adapting to the zero-gravity environment to learning as a baby. He also introduced “Joy” a toy swan which acts as the mission’s zero gravity indicator. He expressed excitement about the journey and the challenges ahead, marking a significant moment for India in space exploration.
**News Article:**
**Indian Astronaut Shukla Beams “Namaskar from Space” as Axiom-4 Mission Nears ISS Docking**
**[The Hindu, June 26, 2025, 6:20 PM IST]** – In a landmark moment for India’s burgeoning space program, astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla sent a message of “Namaskar from space” as the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft, named “Grace,” carrying the Axiom-4 crew, neared the International Space Station (ISS).
Shukla, sharing his experiences via video link from the Dragon spacecraft, described his journey as an incredible experience. He is one of four astronauts on the Axiom-4 commercial mission which launched from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center on Wednesday.
“Wow, what a ride it was,” said Shukla. “After 30 days of quarantine, there was just this feeling that we just wanted to go. Excitement and all was very far away.”
Shukla introduced ‘Joy’ a toy swan that is the zero gravity indicator on the mission. He described the launch as intense, noting the feeling of being pushed back in his seat. Transitioning to microgravity, he added, was a unique experience. “Everything was silent, and you were just floating. You were unbuckled and just floating in the silence of vacuum,” he explained.
The astronaut described adapting to the zero-gravity conditions as a continuous learning process. “I am learning to live in microgravity conditions ‘like a baby,'” Shukla elaborated, “Learning the new steps, learning how to walk, learning how to control yourself, learning how to eat. It’s just so exciting.”
The Axiom-4 mission, a 14-day stay at the ISS, is expected to dock at 4:30 PM today. His contribution marks a significant step forward for India’s presence in space and inspires the next generation of Indian scientists and engineers.
First Piper 