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Indian Astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla’s Journey To ISS Delayed Again – What Went Wrong? News24 –

National
By Correspondent


The much-awaited Axiom Mission 4 has faced another delay in its launch, with leaks being detected during post static fire booster inspections. The mission was slated to launch on Wednesday, June 11. SpaceX announced the postponement of the Falcon 9 launch of the Ax-4 mission to the International Space Station (ISS) through a post on X. The American space technology company stated that it will require more time to fix the issue and new dates will be announced thereafter.

SpaceX wrote on X, “Standing down from tomorrow’s Falcon 9 launch of Ax-4 to the @SpaceStation to allow additional time for SpaceX teams to repair the LOx leak identified during post static fire booster inspections. Once complete – and pending Range availability – we will share a new launch date.”

ISRO Confirms Delay- Here’s What Went Wrong?

Following the announcement by SpaceX, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) also confirmed the delay. With this, Indians who have been eagerly awaiting the launch will have to remain patient. This mission is special to India, as it is set to carry the first Indian Gaganyatri, Shubhanshu Shukla to the ISS. Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla will be India’s second national astronaut to go to space since 1984.

ISRO wrote on X, “Postponement of Axiom 04 mission slated for launch on 11th June 2025 for sending first Indian Gaganyatri to ISS. As part of launch vehicle preparation to validate the performance of booster stage of Falcon 9 launch vehicle, seven second of hot test was carried out on the launch pad. It is understood that LOX leakage was detected in the propulsion bay during the test. Based on the discussion on this topic by ISRO team with the experts of Axiom and SpaceX it has been decided to correct the leak and carry out necessary validation test before clearing for the launch. Hence the launch of Axiom 04 slated for 11th June 2025 for sending first Indian Gaganyatri to ISS is postponed.”

Notably, the Ax-4 crew includes members from India, Poland, and Hungary. This marks each nation’s first mission to the space station in history and the second government-sponsored human spaceflight mission in over 40 years.




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