Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla has begun his journey towards a historic spaceflight as part of the Axiom Space Ax-4 mission, getting his first taste of the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft.

Nasa astronaut Peggy Whitson, who is leading the Ax-4 crew, shared the update stating that the four member crew has visited the SpaceX HQ for suit measurements and pressurisation tests.

Whitson shared that training for the Ax-4 mission has officially commenced, with the crew feeling "right at home" after completing a comprehensive onboarding process in Houston.

At SpaceX, Group Captain Shukla and his fellow crew members underwent suit measurements and pressurization tests, essential steps in ensuring the safety and comfort of astronauts during their mission.

The visit also marked their first introduction to the Dragon spacecraft, SpaceX's state-of-the-art vehicle designed for both cargo and crew missions to the International Space Station (ISS).

As part of the Ax-4 mission, the Indian Air Force officer is expected to spend approximately 10 days aboard the ISS, conducting various scientific experiments and research activities.

The Axiom Space missions are part of a new era in commercial spaceflight, offering opportunities for private citizens and researchers to access the microgravity environment of the ISS.

Ax-4 will be the fourth such mission organized by Axiom Space in partnership with SpaceX and Nasa.

As training progresses, Shubhanshu Shukla and his crewmates will continue to familiarise themselves with the Dragon spacecraft and the complex systems of the ISS.

Source: India Today