Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla's space mission has a whopping price tag
Axiom Space is all set to launch Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla to the International Space Station as part of the Ax-4 mission. He will become the first Indian to travel to the ISS, live and work in zero gravity.The company, which is redefining the private spaceflight industry, has charged India a whopping $70 million, nearly Rs 538 crore, which is significantly higher than competitors like Blue Origin and Virgin Galactic.advertisementThe company's approach, however, is about more than just a rocket ride: it's a yearlong journey to become a trained astronaut and participate in real scientific research aboard the ISS.
Unlike Blue Origin's 11-minute suborbital flights, Axiom's missions last around two weeks and are focused on advancing science. CEO Tejpaul Bhatia told Business Insider that the $70 million fee covers not only the journey but also an intensive training program that meets NASA standards, though it's not quite as rigorous as that for NASA's own astronauts. 'It's a full-on enterprise,' Bhatia said, emphasizing the commitment required from participants.Axiom's upcoming AX-4 mission, scheduled to launch Tuesday, highlights the company's global reach. The mission includes government contracts with India, Poland, and Hungary, offering these countries a cost-effective alternative to building their own space programs.advertisementBhatia noted that, at the government level, the ticket price is 'a drop in the bucket' compared to the billions spent on national space initiatives like the Apollo program.Training for Axiom's missions is extensive, lasting eight months to a year and involving partnerships with Nasa, SpaceX, ESA, and Jaxa. Astronauts undergo 700 to 1,000 hours of training in safety, health, ISS systems, and launch operations.
Training for Axiom's missions is extensive, lasting eight months to a year. (Photo: Axiom)
The experience on the ISS is described as 'rugged,' with every minute accounted for in a tightly scheduled routine of scientific research and public engagement.Despite the steep price, interest in private space travel is growing. Bhatia said that demand for the $70 million ticket has increased, reflecting a broader evolution in the market. While some critics question the value of spending on space amid Earth's challenges, Bhatia argues that 'space and Earth are not mutually exclusive,' and sees the company's mission as part of humanity's broader journey into the universe.Axiom Space's ambitions go beyond individual missions: the company is working to build the world's first commercial space station, aiming to succeed the ISS as a hub for international collaboration and research.Must Watch
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