Axiom-4 Mission Docks at ISS: Indian Astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla Begins 14-Day Research Stay

The Axiom-4 mission, carrying India's Shubhanshu Shukla alongside Anne McClain, Nichole Ayers, and Peggy Whitson, successfully launched from NASA's Kennedy Space Center on Wednesday at 12:01 pm IST. The mission will transport these four private astronauts to low Earth orbit for a two-week stay dedicated to scientific research at the International Space Station (ISS). Docking is scheduled for 4:30 pm IST on Thursday at the orbital outpost's space-facing port on the Harmony module.

This timeline translates to roughly 28.5 to 29 hours from launch to docking. Once there, the crew will dedicate approximately two weeks to conducting scientific research and participating in outreach activities.

Preparing for the Cosmic Leap

The journey began at Launch Complex 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a site steeped in history as the departure point for Neil Armstrong's historic Moon mission. The Ax-4 crew, donned in specialized flight suits, arrived at the launch pad and entered the Dragon capsule "C213" where they conducted pre-launch verifications with SpaceX and NASA teams.

Approximately 35 minutes before launch, the Launch Director authorized fueling after the crew's emergency escape mechanism was activated. The Falcon-9 rocket then received its supercooled liquid oxygen and RP-1 kerosene fuel. With five minutes remaining on the countdown, the Dragon capsule transitioned to internal power, requiring complete synchronization of all systems.

The Ascent Phase

At T-0, Falcon-9's nine Merlin engines roared to life, propelling the vessel skyward. Within the first sixty seconds, the craft broke the sound barrier. The critical "Max Q" phase, where the vehicle experienced peak aerodynamic stress, occurred at 57 seconds.

The vessel maintained its precise trajectory toward low-Earth orbit (LEO), with the crew experiencing intensifying gravitational forces.

Stage Separation and Orbital Entry

Around 150 seconds after launch, the first stage detached and initiated its return to Earth, targeting an automated landing on an Atlantic Ocean platform. Meanwhile, the second stage continued to propel Dragon towards its intended orbit.

Ten minutes after launch, Dragon separated completely and began its independent flight. The nose cone opened, revealing essential navigation equipment. The spacecraft accelerated to speeds exceeding 27,000 km/hr, completing Earth orbits every 90 minutes.

Approaching the ISS

The subsequent 20-24 hours involved meticulous orbital adjustments. Dragon executed a series of calculated engine burns to precisely align with the ISS's trajectory. The spacecraft relied on a combination of GPS, radar, and internal sensors for accurate positioning.

The Docking Procedure

Dragon approached the ISS methodically, pausing at designated waypoints from 400 meters inward. Ground control provided authorization for each progression. At 20 meters, the spacecraft's laser sensors and cameras guided it towards the Harmony module's docking port.

The connection unfolded in two phases: magnetic soft capture, followed by mechanical hard capture, creating an airtight seal between the spacecraft and the ISS.

Mission Commencement Aboard the ISS

Following rigorous pressure and leak verification, the crew entered the International Space Station. The Ax-4 team then initiated their two-week scientific program, which includes research into diabetes. For Shubhanshu Shukla, this mission marks not only a personal milestone but also signifies India's increasing presence in space exploration.