Shubhanshu’s Spacecraft Docks with International Space Station, to Return to Earth in 14 Days

After hours of checks, all four crew members entered the ISS

(Fast Mail):--The SpaceX Dragon capsule, launched from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center, reached the International Space Station (ISS) on Thursday, 20 minutes ahead of schedule. The docking was facilitated by laser sensors, cameras, and automated systems.

The mission was led by Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla of the Indian Air Force. After extensive checks for air leaks and pressure stability, the crew members entered the ISS. The four astronauts will stay there for 14 days before returning to Earth.

Launched from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida at 12:01 PM IST on Thursday, the spacecraft is orbiting Earth at an altitude of 418 km. It completed a nearly 28-hour journey to reach its destination.

The Axiom-4 (Ax-4) crew includes astronauts from India, Poland, and Hungary. Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla is serving as the pilot for this mission, while veteran astronaut Peggy Whitson is leading the Axiom-4 mission. The other two members are Tibor Kapu from Hungary and Polish astronaut Slawosz Uznanski.

Shubhanshu Shukla’s mother, Asha Shukla, said, “The docking was successful. It’s a matter of great pride. This is good for everyone. We are very happy and prayed every day. We pray to God that he fulfills his duties well and returns safely to Earth. The credit goes solely to my son, his hard work, and dedication.”

Shubhanshu’s father, Shambhu Dayal Shukla, added, “We are very happy. The successful docking has taken place, and we thank God for it. We feel great seeing this. We are proud of our child.”

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