Leak in Russian Module Delays Axiom-4 Space Mission

Leak in Russian Module Delays Axiom-4 Space Mission

Why in the News ?

The Axiom-4 (Ax-4) mission to the International Space Station was delayed due to a liquid oxygen leak and a pressure anomaly in Russia’s Zvezda service module, postponing Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla’s historic journey to space.

Mission Overview and Crew Composition:

• Axiom-4 mission is a collaborative spaceflight by Axiom Space, SpaceX, NASA, and ISRO.
• It includes a four-member crew from India, Hungary, Poland, and the US.
• Indian Air Force Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla is set to become the first Indian astronaut to reach the ISS.
• The mission marks the first human spaceflight involving Indians, Hungarians, and Poles in over 40 years.

Technical Setbacks and ISRO’s Response

• The mission was delayed for the fourth time on June 11 after a liquid oxygen leak during a hot test on the launch pad.
• A new issue was detected in the Zvezda Russian service module on the ISS, indicating a pressure signature leak despite recent repairs.
• ISRO Chairman V. Narayanan confirmed coordination with NASA, Roscosmos, and Axiom to ensure safety and mission integrity.

Next Steps and Safety Protocols

• NASA and Roscosmos are jointly assessing the leak in the aft segment of Zvezda to decide on further troubleshooting.
• ISRO has recommended in-situ repairs and low-temperature leak tests before launch clearance.

A revised launch date will be announced post technical review and satisfactory completion of repair activities.