Falcon 9 Rocket Carries Shubhanshu Shukla to Space and Returns Safely in 8 Minutes

Falcon 9, carrying Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla along with three other astronauts, was launched successfully from Kennedy Space Center, Florida. Just 8 minutes after liftoff, the reusable rocket safely returned to Earth.

Dragon Spacecraft Heads Toward ISS

The Dragon spacecraft, which detached from Falcon 9 in orbit, is on its way to the International Space Station (ISS). The mission, named Axiom-04, was launched around 12 PM (local time) and is expected to dock with the ISS approximately 28 hours later, around 4 PM on June 26.

About the Falcon 9 Rocket

Falcon 9 is the world’s first orbital-class reusable rocket developed by SpaceX, owned by Elon Musk. It can launch spacecraft into space and then return to Earth for reuse. This greatly reduces the cost and improves efficiency in space missions.

Falcon 9 Engine & Function

The rocket is powered by nine Merlin engines that use kerosene and liquid oxygen. The engines themselves are also reusable. Falcon 9 consists of two parts: the first stage is reusable and returns to Earth, while the second stage is used only once.

ISS Arrival

The Dragon capsule, which serves as the crew compartment, is expected to reach the ISS within 28 hours. According to the schedule, it will dock with the space station on June 26 at 4 PM IST (7 AM US time).