Subanshu Sharma Embarks on Historic Space Journey: Second Indian in Space After 41 Years
New Delhi, June 25, 2025 – In a monumental achievement for Indian space exploration, Group Captain Subanshu Sharma has become the second Indian to travel to space, 41 years after Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma’s historic mission in 1984. Sharma, an accomplished Indian Air Force (IAF) officer, lifted off aboard the Axiom-4 mission to the International Space Station (ISS) on June 25, 2025, marking a significant milestone for India’s human spaceflight endeavors.
A Historic Launch
The Axiom-4 mission, a collaborative effort between Axiom Space, NASA, and SpaceX, launched from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida at 12:01 PM IST. Sharma, serving as the pilot of the mission, joins an international crew that includes Commander Peggy Whitson of the United States, Slawosz Uznanski-Wisniewski of Poland, and Tibor Kapu of Hungary. This mission signifies India’s triumphant return to human spaceflight and underscores its growing role in global space exploration.
Moments before the launch, Sharma expressed his pride and enthusiasm, declaring, “India is returning to space, Jai Hind!” His words echoed the sentiments of millions across the country who watched the event with bated breath. Rakesh Sharma, India’s first astronaut, sent his best wishes, saying, “Godspeed, and spend as much time as possible looking out of the window. Have a fun time, guys.”
From Humble Beginnings to the Cosmos
Born on October 10, 1985, in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, Subanshu Sharma’s journey to space is a story of determination and excellence. Educated at the City Montessori School (CMS) in Lucknow, he later joined the National Defence Academy, paving the way for a distinguished career in the Indian Air Force. With over 2,000 hours of flying experience on various fighter jets, Sharma’s selection in 2019 for India’s astronaut corps—initially for the Gaganyaan mission—highlighted his exceptional skills and dedication.
Sharma’s family has been his unwavering support system. His wife, Kamna, and their six-year-old son, along with his mother, watched the launch with pride and emotion. The Shukla household in Aliganj, Lucknow, turned into a scene of celebration as relatives and neighbors gathered to witness this historic moment.
India’s Space Legacy Continues
The significance of Sharma’s flight extends beyond personal achievement—it reflects India’s advancing capabilities in space exploration. Union Minister Nitin Gadkari praised the mission, stating, “As the second Indian in space after Rakesh Sharma, his journey is a testament to India’s growing prowess in space exploration, empowered by PM Modi’s visionary reforms.” The Indian Air Force also celebrated the milestone, calling it a “déjà vu moment” that builds on the legacy of Rakesh Sharma’s 1984 mission aboard the Soviet Soyuz T-11 spacecraft.
A Stepping Stone for Future Missions
Sharma’s participation in the Axiom-4 mission is seen as a vital precursor to India’s ambitious Gaganyaan program, slated for 2027, which will see Indian astronauts launched into space aboard an indigenous spacecraft. His time on the ISS will provide critical experience and data, strengthening India’s preparations for this landmark endeavor.
As Sharma marveled at the view from space, calling it “What a ride!” his journey symbolizes a new chapter in India’s space odyssey. Following in the footsteps of Rakesh Sharma, Subanshu Sharma’s maiden flight has reignited national pride and inspired countless young Indians to look skyward with ambition and hope.
