India’s space journey will carry a distinct visual emblem when Group Captain Subhanshu Shukla lifts off for the International Space Station as part of the Axiom-4 mission. A specially designed mission badge created by fashion designer Manish Tripathi will travel with him, symbolising the nation’s scientific ambition and cultural heritage.
The badge, which will feature on Shukla’s spacesuit, is more than a decorative patch. Tripathi, who shares a school background with Shukla, spent nearly eight months finalising the design. It involved countless discussions across time zones to ensure the emblem truly represented India’s identity in space.
Emblem Blends Science with Culture
Inspired by a postage stamp, the badge brings together several powerful elements. It includes imagery of India’s Gaganyaan mission, a nod to independent human spaceflight; the Aryabhata satellite, celebrating 50 years; and the Sun, respected in Indian tradition and vital in space science.
Also included are the ancient Jantar Mantar observatory, the mathematical symbol for zero, the infinity sign, and illustrations of the Moon, highlighting India’s lunar milestones. The badge is bordered by an astronaut helmet, with the map of India placed at the chin — a design choice reflecting the strength and spirit of Hanuman, according to Tripathi.
Maps of partner countries involved in the Axiom-4 mission are also present, further reinforcing the international collaboration behind the journey.
Designed to Inspire Future Generations
Tripathi told ANI the badge was crafted not just to represent India but to ignite curiosity and pride in the younger generation. “This is India’s fingerprint in space,” he said. “It’s a message, a symbol, and a story of where we’re going.”
He described Group Captain Subhanshu Shukla as calm and composed, calling him a “real superhero” who carries the aspirations of over a billion Indians.
The Axiom-4 mission, led by Axiom Space in collaboration with NASA and SpaceX, marks a significant step in India’s growing role in space exploration. With Shukla aboard, India adds yet another chapter to its expanding presence beyond Earth.
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