ISRO’s Shubhanshu Shukla to Fly with Swan in Space
ISRO’s Shubhanshu Shukla to Fly with Swan in Space
When the Axiom-4 mission launches from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida on June 10, 2025, it will carry more than just four astronauts. Alongside them, scientific instruments and a small plush swan named “Joy” will be onboard the SpaceX Crew Dragon. Serving as the mission’s zero-gravity indicator, Joy will float freely once the spacecraft reaches orbit. This charming inclusion blends decades of spaceflight tradition with cultural meaning and international unity.
Continuing a Longstanding Spaceflight Tradition
Using a small object to indicate zero gravity is a time-honored spaceflight tradition. It began in 1961 when Soviet cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin carried a doll aboard Vostok 1. Since then, astronauts often bring soft toys or personal items with them. When these objects float, they signal that the spacecraft has entered microgravity—a key milestone in every mission.
Moreover, these indicators have recently taken on symbolic roles. For example, SpaceX astronauts often choose toys with personal or cultural significance. For the Axiom-4 mission, the crew selected a swan named Joy to represent shared values and cultural expression.
The Cultural Message Behind the Swan
Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla of the Indian Air Force will pilot the Axiom-4 mission. During a media briefing, he explained the swan’s significance in Indian philosophy. The swan is believed to separate milk from water, symbolizing discernment and the ability to distinguish truth from illusion.
For Shukla, carrying Joy goes beyond tradition; it keeps him connected to his cultural roots during the mission. He described the swan as a symbol of purity, clarity of thought, and mental strength—qualities that are crucial for success in space. Thus, this gesture honors the values and wisdom that shaped him on Earth.
A Shared Emblem Across Cultures
The swan’s symbolism resonates beyond Shukla’s culture. Commander Peggy Whitson, a former NASA astronaut and leader of the Axiom-4 crew, pointed out that Joy represents cross-cultural unity. In Indian traditions, the swan signifies wisdom. Meanwhile, in Poland, it symbolizes resilience, and in Hungary, it stands for grace.
By choosing Joy, the crew embraces these cultural values and promotes unity in space exploration. As the swan floats inside the capsule, it will serve as a quiet reminder of harmony among nations.
Milestones and Symbolic Firsts
Shubhanshu Shukla will be the second Indian to travel to space, following Rakesh Sharma’s mission in 1984. Notably, he will also become the first Indian to participate in an international commercial human spaceflight, highlighting the evolving nature of space missions.
The Axiom-4 crew consists of astronauts from the U.S., Poland, and Hungary, each bringing unique expertise and culture. Together, they exemplify how modern space exploration transcends borders and fosters inclusive international collaboration.
The Launch Timeline and Technical Readiness
Axiom-4 will launch aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Launch Complex 39A at Kennedy Space Center. Originally scheduled for May 29, the launch was postponed to June 10 due to weather and technical reasons.
Currently, all systems are undergoing thorough checks. The astronauts have completed extensive training and simulations to prepare for the mission. Following liftoff, the Crew Dragon capsule will enter low-Earth orbit and rendezvous with the International Space Station (ISS).
Life and Work Aboard the ISS
Once docked with the ISS, the crew will remain in space for 14 days. During this time, they plan to conduct over 60 scientific experiments and participate in outreach activities. These studies will cover biology, space medicine, environmental science, and technology development.
Research in microgravity offers insights that are not possible on Earth. It helps scientists better understand the human body in space and test new materials for future missions. Each experiment contributes to advancing science and exploration.
Inspiring the Next Generation Through Outreach
Besides their research, astronauts will engage in educational outreach with students worldwide. Through live sessions and video broadcasts from the ISS, they aim to spark interest in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
These programs help bridge the gap between classrooms and space. As a result, they provide inspiration and knowledge that may guide future scientists, engineers, and explorers.
Commercial Spaceflight and a New Era of Access
The Axiom-4 mission highlights the rise of commercial human spaceflight. Organized by Axiom Space, it supports the goal of building the first commercial space station. Axiom collaborates with NASA and SpaceX, marking a new chapter in space exploration.
This shift promotes global cooperation, research, and even space tourism. Companies like Axiom Space make space more inclusive and diverse. Ultimately, Axiom-4 demonstrates the value of public-private partnerships and offers a glimpse into the future of human space activity.
Human Stories Behind the Helmets
Each astronaut brings a personal journey to space. For Shukla, this mission is more than technical—it is deeply personal. His role honors past achievements and opens doors for others from diverse backgrounds.
Similarly, other crew members carry their own ambitions and pride. While spaceflight is a team effort, it is also filled with personal stories. Therefore, these missions are not just about rockets—they represent dreams and connections to Earth.
The Swan That Will Float, and Inspire
Once in orbit, cameras will capture Joy the swan floating inside the Crew Dragon capsule. These visuals will be shared with audiences on Earth. Joy will symbolize microgravity while reflecting the mission’s unity and purpose.
Although soft toys may seem simple, they play a powerful emotional role. They offer astronauts comfort and connect the public to the mission’s values.
An International Journey Beyond Borders
Axiom-4 represents progress, partnership, and purpose. It merges science, culture, and symbolism, uniting nations through exploration. The astronauts carry equipment and expertise, but also stories, hopes, and symbolic objects like Joy.
Although Earth has borders, missions like Axiom-4 show what humanity can achieve together. As the rocket soars and Joy floats, the mission will celebrate unity, understanding, and our shared dream for the future.
