India Shortlists Astronauts For Axiom-4 ISS Mission

August 3, 2024

India has chosen two astronauts for the Axiom-4 mission to the International Space Station (ISS). Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla will be the main mission pilot, and Group Captain Prasanth Balakrishnan Nair will be the backup pilot. This mission is a big step for India’s human spaceflight program and involves working closely with the United States.

Axiom-4 Mission Overview

The Axiom-4 mission is the fourth private astronaut mission aiming for the ISS. It is part of a broader partnership between ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) and NASA, which was planned during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the U.S. in June 2023. A Space Flight Agreement with Axiom Space Inc. has been made to support this mission.

Training Schedule

The chosen astronauts will start their training in the first week of August 2024. Their training will prepare them for scientific research, technology demonstrations on the ISS, and public outreach activities.

Importance of the Mission

The Axiom-4 mission will advance India’s human space program and strengthen the cooperation between ISRO and NASA. The knowledge and experience gained from this mission will be valuable for future space exploration efforts.

Profiles of the Astronauts

Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla:

Commissioned in the Indian Air Force (IAF) on June 17, 2006.
Fighter Combat Leader and Test Pilot.
Has around 2000 flight hours.
Experienced in flying various aircraft, including Su-30 MKI and MiG-29.

Group Captain Prasanth Balakrishnan Nair:

Commissioned on December 19, 1998.
Recipient of the Sword of Honour.
Category A Flying Instructor and Test Pilot.
Has around 3000 flight hours.
Former commander of a Su-30 Squadron and alumnus of the United States Staff College

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