Excited about impact of experiments part of the mission: Tibor Kapu

Time of India

28-05-2025

For months now, Tibor Kapu and India's Group Captain
Shubhanshu Shukla
have trained side by side—navigating spacecraft systems, running emergency drills, enduring isolation simulations, and even learning to fly—preparing for a shared journey that will carry them far beyond Earth.
When they launch aboard the Axiom-4 mission to the International Space Station (ISS) on June 8, Kapu will represent Hungary on its historic first spaceflight. In an exclusive interview to TOI, Kapu reflects on how his research-driven mindset shapes his approach to space missions, the Hungarian experiments he's taking to orbit, and the technologies he believes will redefine our future in space.
Excerpts:
What are the most exciting scientific experiments/innovations you hope to contribute to during the mission?
I'm particularly excited about the diversity and potential impact of the Hungarian scientific experiments.
One highlight is studying how microgravity affects the human microbiome — understanding its effect on bacterial, viral, and fungal communities in the body could be vital for long-term spaceflight and even medicine on Earth. We're also testing a medical device: a novel, nanofibrous eye insert without any active pharmaceutical ingredients.
Another project spins a water sphere to mimic planetary dynamics—an engaging way to teach physics.
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We'll also be testing microfluidic drug chips and a Hungarian-developed personal dosimetry device for radiation monitoring.
How has your engineering & research background influenced your approach to space missions?
My background has greatly helped me in preparation. Analytical skills and problem-solving techniques I've developed over the years have been valuable while training for space exploration. Engineering principles guide my understanding of spacecraft systems and mission protocols, while my research experience helps me appreciate scientific objectives and experiments.
This combination allows me to contribute effectively to mission execution, ensuring we maximise scientific return while maintaining safety and efficiency.
Given your tech background, what future advancements do you believe will impact space exploration?
I believe the future lies in space radiation protection, advanced materials, and autonomous systems. These are key to long-duration missions. New materials will improve spacecraft durability, while autonomy will allow deeper exploration with less human input.
These technologies will also benefit life on Earth—enhancing medicine and sustainability. Satellite constellations and on-orbit data processing are also exciting; we're beginning to shift high-energy activities into orbit, easing Earth's burden.
What does it feel like to be part of a private mission like Ax-4?
It's incredibly special, especially to represent Hungary on its first mission to the ISS. Growing up, I was fascinated by space.
This mission is a dream come true—not just for me, but for many aspiring scientists back home. It's a proud moment that showcases Hungary's contribution to international collaboration and will hopefully inspire future generations.
With your experience in high-stakes environments, how do you prepare for the challenges of living and working in space?
We've undergone comprehensive training across physical, technical, and psychological domains.
This includes learning spacecraft systems, practising emergency procedures, and maintaining fitness. Psychological readiness is equally crucial—we focus on resilience and effective communication. In Hungary, we had an intense two-year selection and training process: survival training, aerobatics, hyperbaric chamber testing, and private pilot licensing.
We studied rocket theory, space engineering, and space health, and underwent isolation training. In the US, this was expanded with demanding simulations—from donning pressurised suits to emergency drills inside full-scale ISS mockups. Every phase has prepared us for the rigours of spaceflight.