Florida: For the seventh time, the launch of the Axiom-4 (ax-4) mission carrying Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla has been postponed. Just a dayafter announcing a new liftoff date of June 22, NASA has pressed pause again, citing concerns related to recent repair work aboard the International Space Station (ISS).
AS of now, no fresh launch date has been announced, leaving the crew grounded.
The latest setback stems from NASA’s unease over the aft section of the station’s Zvezda service module, where recent repair work was carried out. In a statement, NASA said it “needs additional time to continue evaluating International Space Station operations” following the repair.
"Because of the space station’s interconnected and interdependent systems, NASA wants to ensure the station is ready for additional crew members, and the agency is taking the time necessary to review data,” it added. With four astronauts ready and waiting in quarantine in Florida, the decision reflects the agency’s cautious approach to onboard safety and operational integrity.
String of Technical Hurdles, Weather Delays and Leaks
Originally set for May 29, the Ax-4 mission has encountered one hurdle after another, from electrical snags in the Crew Dragon to oxygen leaks and actuator malfunctions. Postponements followed in quick succession, to June 8, then June 9, 10, 11, and 12. Each delay brought new complications, including weather concerns and, most recently, the discovery of leaks aboard the ISS.
Commanded by former NASA astronaut Peggy Whitson, the commercial mission includes Shubhanshu Shukla of ISRO as pilot, alongside European and Hungarian specialists. The crew is expected to carry out over 60 experiments during the 14-day flight, seven of which are led by the Indian side. With no launch window in sight, ISRO is reportedly working swiftly to refresh the biological samples intended for use in microgravity research.
While it’s not uncommon for launch dates to shift, this mission, with its scientific load and international crew, now finds itself on an indefinite hold as NASA works through the data to determine when the ISS can safely welcome new visitors.
