Axiom-4 Mission Launch Postponed to June 11 Due to Bad Weather

The much-anticipated Axiom-4 mission, which was set to launch on June 10, 2025, has been postponed by a day due to unfavorable weather conditions at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) confirmed that the mission will now lift off on June 11 at 5:30 PM IST (8:00 AM ET).

Axiom-4 Mission Overview

The Axiom-4 mission is a private astronaut flight operated by Axiom Space in collaboration with NASA and ISRO. It marks a historic moment for India as Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla becomes the second Indian astronaut to travel to space after Rakesh Sharma’s 1984 mission.

Axiom-4 mission

The mission will be launched aboard SpaceX’s Falcon-9 rocket, carrying a four-member crew:

Peggy Whitson (Commander)

Experience: Former NASA astronaut with three previous spaceflights.
Total Time in Space: Holds the record for the longest cumulative time in space by an American astronaut.
Role in Axiom-4: Leading the mission as Commander, ensuring smooth operations and crew safety.
Notable Achievements: First female commander of the ISS, extensive experience in microgravity research.

Shubhanshu Shukla (Pilot)

Background: Indian Air Force (IAF) Group Captain, selected for ISRO’s Gaganyaan mission.
Flight Experience: Over 2,000 hours flying fighter jets, including Sukhoi-30MKI, Mig-21, and Jaguar.
Role in Axiom-4: Pilot, responsible for spacecraft navigation and docking procedures.
Scientific Contributions: Conducting seven ISRO experiments and five NASA human research studies.

Sławosz Uznański-Wiśniewski (Mission Specialist)

Nationality: Polish astronaut, representing European Space Agency (ESA).
Expertise: Scientist and engineer, specializing in space systems and radiation effects.
Role in Axiom-4: Conducting scientific research aboard the ISS, focusing on microgravity effects.
Significance: First Polish astronaut to stay aboard the ISS.

Tibor Kapu (Mission Specialist)

Nationality: Hungarian astronaut, representing Hungary’s Space Office.
Background: Mechanical engineer, specializing in space technology and robotics.
Role in Axiom-4: Supporting engineering tasks and conducting experiments related to space sustainability.
Significance: First Hungarian astronaut to stay aboard the ISS.

Reason for Postponement

ISRO announced that adverse weather conditions at the launch site forced the delay. The backup launch window on June 11 was originally designated for contingencies, ensuring a safe and successful liftoff.

Significance of the Axiom-4 Mission

This mission is a major milestone for India’s space program, fulfilling a commitment made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and former U.S. President Donald Trump to send an ISRO astronaut to the International Space Station (ISS). It also marks India’s return to human spaceflight after 41 years, paving the way for future missions like Gaganyaan.

Next Steps

The Axiom-4 crew and SpaceX teams have completed a full rehearsal of launch day activities. If weather conditions improve, the mission will proceed as scheduled on June 11