The first Indian astronaut to travel to the ISS aboard a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft is expected to be Indian Air Force Officer Shubhanshu Shukla. His journey, part of NASA’s Axiom Mission 4, is slated to start no earlier than April 2026 in collaboration with the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO).
Speaking at a press conference, Shukla expressed his excitement about experiencing microgravity and being part of this groundbreaking mission. Apart from his primary role as the mission’s pilot, he aims to take elements of India’s rich cultural heritage to space. He and his crew have been trying Indian food, and he hopes to carry some to the ISS.
When asked about performing yoga in space, Shukla smiled and said he would likely demonstrate a few poses, much like Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma did decades ago.
Leading the mission will be former NASA astronaut Peggy Whitson, accompanied by crew members from Hungary and Poland.
“This experience will greatly advance India’s Gaganyaan mission by providing valuable insights into human spaceflight,” Shukla believes. India’s space exploration involvement is increasing as NASA focuses on expanding private space missions.
