Indian Astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla Meets Pixxel CEO, Discusses Space Sector & STEM

• Bengaluru-based Pixxel founder-CEO Awais Ahmed met Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, India's second astronaut and first to visit the ISS.
• Shukla, who flew on Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4) in 2025, shared his enthusiasm for India's private space sector growth.
• He emphasized the critical need to promote STEM education across the country to inspire future generations.
• Ahmed highlighted Shukla's passion for expanding both public and private efforts in space and his desire to see Indian astronauts launch on domestic rockets.
• Shukla was awarded the Ashoka Chakra in January 2026 for his historic space mission, ending a 41-year gap since Rakesh Sharma's flight.

Why It Matters: Astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla and Pixxel CEO Awais Ahmed discussed India's private space sector and STEM education.