AXIOM-4 Mission was allegedly delayed by Lox leaks due to carrying Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla

The AXIOM-4 mission, who will take Indian payload expert Shuhanshu Shukla, was again delayed due to a proponent leak in the Falcon 9 rocket. SpaceX, the company behind the mission, also confirmed that a liquid oxygen leakage was detected in the post-static fire testing, which tests the rocket while it is still connected to the launch pad. Initially targeted for May 29, Mission has faced a continuous delay, the latest on its recent June 11 schedule. ISRO scientists have mentioned the issue that the liftoff may be delayed by “one and a few days” depending on the progress of repair and safety beliefs.

Lox leak in Falcon 9 Axiom-4 mission with Shubhun Shukla of India

As statement From Spacex, the Lox leakage was identified after the Static Fire Booster Test, inspiring the team to stand below the latest launch window. According To print, ISRO Officials said that the rocket is usually needed to pull back for a complete inspection to release a Lox close to the launch. However, the ISRO team refrains from commenting on specific technical processes, unfamiliar with the ownership systems of SpaceX, the publication said. The first signs of leakage were reportedly revealed on 8 June.

Falcon 9 rely on Lux (liquid oxygen), with RP -1 (rocket -grade kerosene) as an oxidizer to pursue the vehicle. During static fire tests, the engine is briefly ignited to validate their performance. Detection systems including oxygen sensors and thermal imaging help to identify leaks in these stages. AX-4 mission It was already reinstated several times – initially from 29 May to 8 June, then till 10 June, and again to 11 June – due to weather concerns.

Spacex Vice President Bill Gerstenamier told reporters during a pre-launch briefing that a solution was going on. “We are putting in a purse that would stop the leaks,” he mentioned, saying that the problem was under control. Nevertheless, the ultimate launch date is in the air and will rely on the consequences of continuous safety assessment.

Auto -location In charge of the project, India’s human spaceflight is a major step for the program. It presents Shubhanshu Shukla as part of a commercial crew going to the international space station of a commercial crew. Technical problems are common in space operation, but this fourth delay shows how difficult it is to ensure that everything is perfect for crew missions.