Axiom-4 mission: Shubhanshu Shukla’s SpaceX mission to FINALLY launch past midnight – here’s how you can watch

After a string of ‘failed dates’, the D-Day is finally here – and this time, even the weather is in favor!

After multiple delays due to a variety of reasons, the much-anticipated Axiom 4 mission to the International Space Station (ISS) is set to be launched on Wednesday, June 25, at 2.31 am EDT. As the “weather is 90% favorable for liftoff” this time, according to SpaceX, the mission is set to liftoff from Launch Complex 39A at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida.

The Axiom-4 mission, which is a SpaceX endeavor and a fully commercial human spaceflight, will be carrying a diverse crew of four astronauts to the International Space Station (ISS).

Here’s all you need to know about the mission and crew.

Mission objectives and significance

The Ax-4 mission aims to conduct scientific research and technology demonstrations aboard the ISS. The crew is expected to spend up to 14 days conducting about 60 scientific experiments in microgravity, contributing to advancements in various scientific fields. This mission not only furthers scientific knowledge but also fosters international collaboration in space exploration.

This mission, operated by Axiom Space in partnership with SpaceX and NASA, is notable for its diverse crew representing India, Poland, Hungary, and the United States. Each of these nations is participating in a government-sponsored human spaceflight for the first time in over four decades.

The diverse crew

The Ax-4 crew, representing the United States, India, Poland, and Hungary, is due to ride a brand-new SpaceX Dragon spacecraft to orbit, which will get off the ground with the assistance of the company's two-stage Falcon 9 rocket. The mission aims to conduct microgravity experiments, promote international collaboration in space exploration, and demonstrate the feasibility of commercial space stations.

Peggy Whitson (USA) – Mission commander
Peggy Whitson, a veteran NASA astronaut, commands the Ax-4 mission. With a record of 675 days in space, she holds the US record for the most cumulative time spent in space. Her leadership in this mission underscores her extensive experience and commitment to advancing human spaceflight.


Shubhanshu Shukla (India) – Mission pilot
Group Captain Shubhanshu 'Shuks' Shukla of the Indian Air Force serves as the mission pilot. Born in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, Shukla has over 2,000 flying hours across various aircraft, including the MiG-29 and Su-30 MKI. He is set to become the second Indian to travel to space, following Rakesh Sharma's 1984 mission. This flight marks a significant achievement for India’s space endeavors and highlights the country's emerging presence in international space missions.


Sławosz Uznański (Poland) – Mission specialist
Sławosz Uznański, a European Space Agency (ESA) project astronaut from Poland, is assigned as a mission specialist. Selected from over 22,500 applicants, Uznański represents Poland's first astronaut since 1978. His participation underscores Poland's growing involvement in space exploration and its collaboration with international space agencies.


Tibor Kapu (Hungary) – Mission specialist
Tibor Kapu, a mechanical engineer, is Hungary's second astronaut to fly to space. Selected through the Hungarian to Orbit (HUNOR) program, Kapu's mission is supported by the Hungarian Space Office and Axiom Space. His participation highlights Hungary's commitment to advancing its space program and contributing to international space research.

How to watch the liftoff

You can watch the Ax-4 liftoff live on SpaceX's website or social media. As per SpaceX, “Ax-4 mission to the @Space_Station and weather is 90% favorable for liftoff. Webcast starts at 12:30 a.m. ET.”