Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, widely known as “Shux,” recently shared insights into the extensive and varied training undergone by the Axiom-4 crew prior to their landmark 20-day mission to the International Space Station. Their preparation not only involved mastering technical aspects but also included vital survival skills and advanced photography training, underscoring the broad skill set required of today’s astronauts.
The crew took part in demanding survival training through the National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS) program, which featured challenging kayaking expeditions along the Mexican coast. This experience was designed to build essential qualities such as teamwork, resilience, and adaptability—traits critical for success in space missions. Highlighting the importance of collaboration, Shukla stated, “You have to be a team player. If you are not a team player, you are not fit for spaceflight.”
In addition to survival skills, the astronauts completed over 20 specialized classes in photography and videography. This training equipped them to capture their extraordinary journey visually, ensuring they could bring back vivid memories and moments to share with audiences worldwide. Shukla emphasized that this aspect of training reflects the evolving role of commercial spaceflights, which now place emphasis on public engagement and scientific outreach.
Furthermore, the crew engaged in intensive high-tech training at NASA’s Johnson Space Center and SpaceX facilities, including 35 days of immersive sessions inside Dragon spacecraft simulators. There, they honed their abilities in spacecraft operations, emergency procedures, and conducting scientific research aboard the International Space Station.
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