Paper: GS – III, Subject: Science and Technology, Topic: Achievements of India in the field of Science and technology, Issue: Significance of Axiom Mission.
Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla’s journey to the International Space Station (ISS) as part of the Axiom-4 mission is a milestone in India’s human spaceflight programme, and a precursor to the indigenous Gaganyaan mission.
Significance of Shukla’s ISS Mission:
- New Chapter in Indian Space Programme:
- Epochal shift: It marks a shift towards human space travel by India.
- Transitionary Phase: It builds upon earlier ISRO successes (e.g., Chandrayaan, Mars Orbiter) and represents a transition from robotic to crewed missions.
- Symbolic but Strategic Move: Though not part of an indigenous ISRO mission, Shukla’s journey reflects India’s growing competence in human spaceflight and valuable international training and exposure.
Gaganyaan Learnings:
- Training and Readiness: Shukla, along with other astronauts selected for Gaganyaan, trained in Russia due to lack of domestic facilities.
- Transfer of Knowledge: Experience from Axiom-4 enables ISRO to:
- Set up its own astronaut training centre.
- Expand its human spaceflight programme.
- Offer training to astronauts from other developing nations.
Changing Global Space Dynamics:
- Rise of Commercial Spaceflight: Private entities (especially in the U.S.) are driving rapid space advancements. International Space Station (ISS) has become a commercial platform for tech and research.
- Shift Toward Deep Space Goals: Nations are focusing on:
- Moon missions, Mars exploration, space-based infrastructure.
- China and U.S. are leading in long-term lunar base planning.
India’s Role:
- India-US Space Cooperation: Axiom-4 mission indicates strong India-U.S. space ties.ISRO was not merely a passive partner but contributed actively to pre-launch operations.
- Opportunity for India: ISRO is gaining credibility as a future training and mission hub for other nations. It is likely to become a key partner in upcoming ISS replacements or lunar ventures.
- India as a space power: The mission underscores India’s aspiration to become a space power, not just a participant.It also shows that the Human spaceflight is no longer optional for spacefaring nations.
- Futuristic role: With the upcoming Gaganyaan mission and further international collaboration, India is:
- Cementing its strategic position in global space politics.
- Preparing for a future beyond Earth-based science.
Conclusion:
Shukla’s mission is not a one-off but a gateway for India’s sustained presence in human spaceflight. It marks a shift in India’s role—from being a space user to a space enabler and contributor. It further lays the groundwork for future indigenous missions and global leadership in space science.
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