SpaceX has delayed the Axiom-4 mission to the International Space Station. The company announced the decision after it found a liquid oxygen (LOx) leak during a routine check of the Falcon 9 rocket.
“Standing down from tomorrow’s Falcon 9 launch of Ax-4 to allow additional time for SpaceX teams to repair the LOx leak,” SpaceX posted on X.
Standing down from tomorrow’s Falcon 9 launch of Ax-4 to the @Space_Station to allow additional time for SpaceX teams to repair the LOx leak identified during post static fire booster inspections. Once complete – and pending Range availability – we will share a new launch date pic.twitter.com/FwRc8k2Bc0
— SpaceX (@SpaceX) June 11, 2025
As a result, the launch will not happen as originally planned.
New Launch Date Will Follow Repairs
After repairs are completed, SpaceX will announce a new launch date. However, the final timing will also depend on range availability.
Earlier, the company said weather conditions were 85% favorable, but engineers were still monitoring strong winds along the rocket’s flight path. Therefore, they continued to assess all safety risks.
Indian Astronaut Set to Fly
Meanwhile, Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, an officer from the Indian Air Force, is part of the Ax-4 crew. This mission holds special importance for India, as it highlights the country's growing presence in international space missions. In addition, Shukla’s participation has drawn significant attention and pride back home.
