In a significant step towards the first ISRO-NASA collaboration for the International Space Station (ISS), two Indian astronauts, Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla and Group Captain Prasanth Balakrishnan Nair, have successfully completed the initial phase of their training for the Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4).

The training, which began in the first week of August 2024, is being conducted in the United States as part of their preparation for a historic mission aboard the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft to the ISS.

ISRO shared highlights of the initial training that showed the 'Gaganyatris' undergoing extensive sessions covering various mission-critical aspects, including:

* Mission Ground Facility Tours: Orientation to mission-related facilities and infrastructure.

* Mission Overview: Comprehensive understanding of launch phases.

* SpaceX Suit Fit Checks: Ensuring proper fitting of the advanced SpaceX suits.

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NASA officer imparting medical emergency training
NASA officer imparting medical emergency training

* Space Food Selection: Evaluating and choosing suitable food options for the mission.

* Spacecraft Familiarization: Introduction to the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft and ISS systems, including onboard operations and communication protocols.

* Emergency Training: Specialized sessions on handling space emergencies, including medical contingencies.

* Photography Training: Techniques for capturing images from space.

The next phase of training will delve deeper into the US Orbital Segment of the ISS, equipping the crew with the skills needed for conducting scientific experiments in a microgravity environment and performing simulated mission scenarios onboard the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft.

The mission marks a pivotal milestone for India’s Gaganyaan program and its collaboration with NASA.