On June 8, 2025, Indian astronaut-designate Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla will embark on a historic journey to the International Space Station (ISS) as part of the Axiom Mission-4 (Ax-4).
Alongside mission commander Peggy Whitson, a former NASA astronaut, and crew members Slawosz Uznanski-Wisniewski from Poland and Tibor Kapu from Hungary, Shukla will represent India’s growing presence in space exploration.
As the crew prepares for this monumental mission, they have entered a critical phase: quarantine. This step, though often overlooked, is vital to the success of the mission and the safety of the astronauts.
But why is quarantine so necessary, and what does it achieve for missions like Ax-4?
Experts say that quarantine is not just a formality; it’s a shield that protects astronauts and the mission from unseen threats. Space missions operate in extreme environments where even a minor health issue can spiral into a major problem.
The ISS, a closed and confined space, has limited medical resources, and any infection could jeopardize the crew’s health, disrupt experiments, or even force an early return to Earth. By isolating the astronauts before the launch, mission teams ensure that the crew remains free from infections like colds, flu, or other contagious diseases that could compromise their performance or the safety of the ISS.
“For Shukla and his Ax-4 crew, quarantine is especially crucial because they will spend up to 14 days aboard the ISS, conducting complex scientific experiments, outreach activities, and commercial tasks. A healthy crew is essential to carry out these responsibilities effectively. Quarantine minimizes the risk of introducing pathogens to the ISS, where microgravity can make the human immune system less effective. A simple virus that’s manageable on Earth could become a serious issue in space, affecting not only the infected astronaut but also the entire crew and the mission’s objectives,” explained space expert Girish Linganna.
Beyond protecting the crew, quarantine safeguards the ISS itself. The station is a marvel of engineering, hosting delicate equipment and experiments that require a sterile environment.
Contaminants brought by an astronaut could damage these systems or ruin sensitive research, such as the microgravity experiments Shukla will oversee. By undergoing strict health checks and isolation, the crew ensures that the ISS remains a safe and functional laboratory for global scientific advancements.
Quarantine does more than just keep astronauts healthy; it prepares them mentally and physically for the challenges of space. During this period, the Ax-4 crew, including Shukla, will undergo final medical evaluations to confirm their fitness for the mission.
These checks monitor everything from their physical health to their immune system’s readiness for the stresses of space travel. Any minor health concerns can be addressed before launch, ensuring the crew is in peak condition.
“Isolation also gives astronauts time to focus. Space missions are intense, requiring sharp concentration and teamwork. Quarantine removes distractions, allowing the crew to bond, review procedures, and mentally prepare for the journey ahead. For Shukla, this time is invaluable as he prepares to represent India on a global stage. As he expressed during the crew send-off, the success of Ax-4 relies on the collective efforts of countless ground staff and technical teams. Quarantine reinforces this sense of unity, reminding the crew of their shared purpose and the immense responsibility they carry,” added Linganna.
Experts point out that another key benefit of quarantine is protecting the scientific goals of the mission. Shukla will oversee seven microgravity experiments designed by Indian researchers, including a fascinating study on tardigrades, or “water bears,” to understand how life adapts to microgravity.
The data collected could inspire new technologies, improve our understanding of biology in space, and support future missions like Gaganyaan, India’s first human spaceflight program. A healthy crew ensures these experiments are conducted flawlessly, maximizing their scientific and practical value.
Tardigrades, also known as water bears, are tiny, eight-legged creatures that live in water or moist places like moss and soil. In simple words, they are microscopic animals that are famous for being super tough—they can survive extreme heat, freezing cold, radiation, and even the vacuum of space!
Shukla’s participation in Ax-4 is a proud moment for India. As the first Indian astronaut to visit the ISS since Rakesh Sharma’s historic flight in 1984, he carries the hopes of a nation eager to make its mark in space. His mission is more than a personal achievement; it’s a milestone for India’s space ambitions.
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has carefully selected experiments for Ax-4 that align with national priorities, from advancing scientific knowledge to building a robust microgravity research ecosystem. These efforts will lay the groundwork for Gaganyaan and future manned missions, positioning India as a leader in human spaceflight.
As Shukla and the Ax-4 crew prepare to board the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft on June 8, their time in quarantine is a reminder of the precision and care that define space exploration. It’s a process that ensures their safety, the success of their mission, and the integrity of the ISS. For India, this mission is a chance to showcase its scientific talent and inspire a new generation of researchers, engineers, and astronauts.
