Axiom-4 Mission: Why India’s Shubhanshu Shukla is still not in space, the reasons behind the delays

By | June 20, 2025
Falcon 9 rocket facing technical issues delaying the Axiom-4 mission

India’s ambitions for space travel continue to grow, but one mission remains grounded. The Axiom-4 mission Shubhanshu Shukla delay has raised questions among space enthusiasts and the Indian public. What was expected to be a landmark moment—India’s return to space with an astronaut aboard the International Space Station—has seen multiple postponements. This article explores the reasons behind the delays and what it means for India’s space future.

🛰️ Why Is Shubhanshu Shukla Still on Earth?

India’s Shubhanshu Shukla, a former Air Force officer and astronaut trained under ISRO’s Gaganyaan mission, was set to travel aboard Axiom Mission 4 to the International Space Station (ISS). But the launch has been postponed several times.

1. 🚀 Launch Vehicle Anomalies

The Falcon 9 rocket, operated by SpaceX, encountered a liquid oxygen (LOX) leak during a static fire test in late May 2025. Later, issues were found with engine thrust-vector controls. Engineers had to pause the launch to ensure safety.

2. ⛈️ Unfavourable Weather in Florida

The mission’s new date was moved from May 29 to June 8, then to June 10 and 11. Each time, poor weather at Cape Canaveral disrupted launch conditions, such as high winds and thunderstorms.

3. 🛰️ ISS Air Leak

The mission hit another hurdle after a leak was detected in the Zvezda module on the Russian side of the ISS. Although it was minor, the problem raised concerns about safely accommodating new astronauts on board.

📅 June 30 Deadline Looms

NASA and Axiom face a tight window to launch. After June 30, other ISS missions take priority, and Axiom-4 may be delayed to August or later.

🔬 Why This Mission Matters for India

It serves as a precursor to Gaganyaan, India’s upcoming indigenous manned spaceflight.

Shukla would become India’s first astronaut aboard the ISS, and the second Indian in space after Rakesh Sharma.

Experiments planned include microgravity research sponsored by Indian universities and ISRO.

✅ Conclusion

The Axiom-4 mission Shubhanshu Shukla delay may be frustrating, but it reflects the high standards required for human spaceflight. Whether the launch occurs in late June or slips to August, India’s next step into space is coming—and it will be historic.