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

The Axiom-4 mission successfully launched at 12:01 pm IST on Wednesday from NASA's Kennedy Space Center, embarking on a journey to the International Space Station (ISS).

The mission, carrying a crew including India's Shubhanshu Shukla, alongside Anne McClain, Nichole Ayers, and Peggy Whitson, is transporting the four private astronauts to low Earth orbit. Docking is slated for 4:30 pm IST on Thursday at the space-facing port of the Harmony module, marking the beginning of a two-week period dedicated to scientific research.

The voyage from launch to docking is estimated to take approximately 28.5 to 29 hours. During their two-week stay at the ISS, the crew will be engrossed in conducting scientific research and participating in outreach activities.

Preparing for the Launch

The mission originated from Launch Complex 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a location of historical significance as the departure point for Neil Armstrong's lunar mission. Donning specialized flight suits, the Ax-4 crew boarded the Dragon capsule "C213". Comprehensive pre-launch checks were then carried out in collaboration with SpaceX and NASA teams.

Approximately 35 minutes before liftoff, the Launch Director authorized the fuelling process, following the activation of the crew's emergency escape mechanism. The Falcon-9 rocket received its supercooled liquid oxygen and RP-1 kerosene fuel. With five minutes remaining, the Dragon capsule transitioned to internal power. The successful culmination of the countdown required absolute synchronisation across all systems.

Ascent Phase

At T-0, the nine Merlin engines of the Falcon-9 ignited, launching the spacecraft into the sky. Within a minute, the craft surpassed the speed of sound. The critical "Max Q" phase, during which the vehicle experienced maximum aerodynamic stress, occurred at 57 seconds.

As the vessel continued its ascent towards low-Earth orbit (LEO), the crew endured intensifying gravitational forces.

Stage Separation and Orbital Entry

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

Ten minutes post-launch, the Dragon capsule separated and began its independent flight. The nose cone opened, revealing vital navigation equipment. Reaching speeds exceeding 27,000 km/hr, the craft orbits Earth every 90 minutes.

ISS Approach

The subsequent 20-24 hours involved making precise orbital adjustments. The Dragon capsule executed calculated engine burns to align its trajectory with that of the ISS. The craft depended on GPS, radar, and internal sensors for accurate positioning.

Docking Procedure

The Dragon capsule approached the ISS methodically, pausing at predetermined waypoints from a distance of 400 metres. Ground control authorized each step of the approach. At 20 metres, the craft's laser sensors and cameras guided it towards the docking port on the Harmony module.

The connection process unfolded in two stages: a magnetic soft capture followed by a mechanical hard capture, creating an airtight seal.

Mission Commencement

Following thorough pressure and leak checks, the crew entered the ISS. The Ax-4 team commenced their two-week scientific program, which included research into diabetes. For Shubhanshu Shukla, this mission marks a significant personal achievement and highlights India's growing prominence in space exploration.