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New Indian Express
15-07-2025
- Science
- New Indian Express
ISRO shares full account of astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla's Axiom-4 space mission
BENGALURU: As the whole nation celebrates the splashdown of Group Captain and astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla on July 15 at 3:02 pm at Pacific Ocean, off California coast as part of the Axiom-4 space mission, India's Gaganyatri has been sent to medical quarantine for seven days for his physical, mental and psychological well-being. In the meantime, ISRO, which had sent Shukla on the mission and invested Rs 550 crore on it, said that the safety and health of its astronaut was its top most priority. The ISRO team also shared a detailed account of the works Shukla had undertaken during his 21-day long space mission, of which 18 days were spent on the International Space Station. ISRO stated that Shukla had adapted exceptionally well to the zero-gravity environment in space. Despite the physical and psychological challenges of spaceflight, he maintained optimal health throughout the mission. He also captured and shared a wide array of photographs and videos documenting his life and works during the low Earth orbit mission. ISRO-led scientific experiments completed Shukla completed a suite of seven microgravity experiments developed by Indian research institutions under the Human Space Flight Centre's (HSFC) coordination. These experiments explored muscle regeneration, algal growth, crop viability, microbial survivability, cognitive performance in space, and the behaviour of cyanobacteria - each aimed at enhancing understanding of human spaceflight and microgravity science. The experiments included- Space Microalgae (developed by ICGEB and BRIC-NIPGR, New Delhi): It assessed the growth and radiation response of edible algae; Myogenesis (developed by BRIC-InStem, Bengaluru): Under this the muscle regeneration with supplement treatment were studied; sprouting of methi and moong seeds in microgravity (developed by UAS & IIT Dharwad); life, resilience and aging pattern of tardigrade (designed by IISc, Bengaluru); cognitive testing with in-flight user interface displays of electronic displays (also designed by IISc, Bengaluru); comparative growth and proteomics of Cyanobacteria in Microgravity (developed by ICGEB, New Delhi); and Impact of microgravity on seed physiology on food crop seeds (developed by IIST and KAU, Thiruvananthapuram).
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Business Standard
15-07-2025
- Science
- Business Standard
Shukla conducts 7 Indian experiments aboard ISS during Axiom-4 mission
Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, the first Indian on the ISS, led seven Indian-designed experiments during Axiom-4, advancing life sciences for future space travel Business Standard Chennai Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, the first Indian to visit the International Space Station (ISS) and the second Indian to go to space after 41 years, not only laid the foundation for the country's ambitious Gaganyaan mission but also conducted a host of scientific experiments in space. Out of the total 60 experiments conducted by the Axiom-4 crew at the ISS, seven were designed by Indian researchers. The basic idea behind these experiments was to gauge space's interaction with life. The Axiom-4 mission was successfully launched from NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida on 25 June and docked with the ISS on 26 June. After two days of adjusting to the microgravity environment, Shukla began scientific experiments on 29 June. Here are the seven experiments he conducted during his stay at the ISS, based on data shared by Axiom-4 and media reports: One of the major experiments he conducted was the space microalgae experiment, which involved deploying sample bags and capturing images of algae strains. These tiny organisms could play a vital role in the future of space exploration, offering a sustainable, nutrient-rich food source for long-duration missions. This was developed by the International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB) and the National Institute of Plant Genome Research (NIPGR) of the Department of Biotechnology (DBT). Another experiment, developed by the University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad, and the Indian Institute of Technology, Dharwad, involved sprouting salad seeds in space. The Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru, developed an experiment to assess the survival, revival, reproduction and transcriptome of the eutardigrade Paramacrobiotus. This Voyager Tardigrades experiment investigated how microscopic creatures survive and reproduce in space. The findings could provide new insights into the molecular mechanisms of cellular resilience, which could translate into clinically relevant knowledge on Earth. The Myogenesis experiment aimed to uncover the biological pathways behind skeletal muscle degradation in space — a major challenge for astronauts. By identifying these mechanisms, researchers hope to develop targeted therapies that could protect space travellers and aid people suffering from muscle-degenerative diseases on Earth. This was developed by the Institute for Stem Cell Science and Regenerative Medicine under the DBT. Another experiment was designed to understand the effect of metabolic supplements on muscle regeneration under microgravity. Tests developed by IISc were also conducted to analyse human interaction with electronic displays in microgravity. Separately, ICGEB conducted an experiment to understand the comparative growth and proteomics responses of cyanobacteria on urea and nitrate in microgravity. An additional experiment focused on the growth and yield of food crop seeds, developed by the Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology (IIST), Department of Space, and the College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Kerala Agricultural University.
Economic Times
25-06-2025
- Science
- Economic Times
Axiom-4 Mission: Creating our own space
ANI Representational Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4) is all set to dock at ISS today. The international crew, including India's Shubhanshu Shukla, will conduct over 60 experiments in microgravity biology, health sciences, AI and materials research. Shukla's experience will bolster India's Gaganyaan mission, slated for 2026-27, and enhance its preparedness for future human spaceflightAs Shukla begins his mission, India's scientific contributions are also making their presence felt in space. Research: Ax-4 carries with it 7 cutting-edge research experiments, focusing on space biology and bioengineering: 1. Microalgae growth under space radiation by International Centre for Genetic Engineering & Biotechnology (ICGEB) and National Institute of Plant Genome Research (NIPGR). 2. Seed sprouting in microgravity by University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad, and IIT Dharwad.3. Gene expression studies on survival and adaptation of tardigrades in space by IISc Bangalore.4. Research on muscle regeneration under microgravity, led by inStem, on the effects of metabolic supplements.5. Another IISc-led project examines human interaction with electronic displays in orbital environments.6. ICGEB also contributes a study comparing nutrient utilisation in cyanobacteria using urea and nitrate in microgravity. 7. Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology (IIST) and Kerala Agricultural University (KAU) project investigates the impact of microgravity on crop growth and yield. These diverse yet complementary studies are vital steps toward developing bioregenerative life support systems, essential for sustaining human life during long-duration space missions and future space settlements. Strategic implications: Ax-4 supports the Gaganyaan roadmap and future missions by providing real-time exposure and hands-on experience in space medicine, orbital operations, crew management, mission planning and bioastronautics. While Shukla is in orbit, several other Indians involved in on-ground mission support will be gaining invaluable insight into managing complex space missions. Future ready: This mission also aligns with India's BioE3 policy, which focuses on developing national leadership in biotech and space-based life sciences. In the long term, such experiences will feed into India's goal of establishing the Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS) by 2035 and sending a crewed mission to the moon by 2040. The future includes a series of uncrewed test flights under the Gaganyaan programme, which will validate critical technologies and strengthen mission readiness. By the end of the decade, development of BAS is expected to begin, with its initial modules likely to launch around 2028. Together, Gaganyaan and BAS will become twin pillars of India's human spaceflight efforts, both as platforms for advanced research and hubs for international global space landscape is evolving rapidly. Several commercial and national space stations are either planned or under construction. These include Axiom Space's private station, Blue Origin's Orbital Reef, StarLab (a US-Japan collaboration), Russia's proposed ROS, Nasa's Lunar Gateway, and China's Tiangong Station. These ventures reflect a shift from purely government-led missions to multi-stakeholder platforms supporting research, industry and space remain an active and influential participant in this new era, India must deepen its international engagements, forging partnerships with national agencies and private space firms. This will not only expand opportunities for vyomanauts to fly aboard missions beyond Gaganyaan, but also reinforce India's position as avital contributor to humanity's shared journey into highlights the increasing importance of science diplomacy and technological exchange in a rapidly evolving, multipolar space ecosystem. For India, it rekindles the spacefaring legacy first ignited in 1984 with cosmonaut Rakesh Sharma, and now propels the nation toward a more active, independent and globally integrated role in human is not merely a journey to ISS but also a bold leap into the future, unlocking new pathways for scientific discovery, international cooperation and the vast potential of human presence beyond Earth. It stands as a powerful symbol of how India is poised to leapfrog into the next era of space exploration, not as a follower but as a frontrunner in shaping the future of humanity in space. Adefining trait of India's space journey has been Isro's philosophy of learning before leading. It has strategically partnered global agencies to absorb knowledge, develop expertise and build indigenous capability. From early collaborations with the Soviet Union and Nasa to mastering satellite tech, launch vehicles, interplanetary missions and now human spaceflight, Isro has consistently transformed each international engagement into a foundation for selfreliant progress. Ax-4 is another such milestone, an opportunity to learn from the best, and then translate those insights into India's own systems, missions and ambitions. It reinforces a model that has long defined Isro's brand: quiet resilience, scientific excellence and pursuit of sovereign strength in space. The writer is former chairman, Isro (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this column are that of the writer. The facts and opinions expressed here do not reflect the views of Elevate your knowledge and leadership skills at a cost cheaper than your daily tea. Crash. Silence. Confusion. How India's air accident watchdog is failing its biggest test yet HDB Financial may be cheaper than Bajaj Fin, but what about returns? 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Time of India
25-06-2025
- Science
- Time of India
Axiom's Shubhanshu Shukla to grow methi and moong daal in microgravity as India eyes cultivating food in Space
Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4) is set to become the most science-intensive private mission to the International Space Station. With 60 research projects from 31 countries, including India, Brazil, the United States, Hungary, Nigeria, and the UAE, it represents an unprecedented global collaboration in orbit. Originally scheduled for launch on 22 June from NASA's Kennedy Space Centre, the mission has been postponed. Despite the delay, the science is ready. Indian Air Force pilot Shubhanshu Shukla , now an astronaut, will represent India aboard the ISS, leading a series of complex experiments developed by ISRO and Indian academic institutions. This is India's most research-heavy involvement in an international space mission to date. Also Read: Axiom 4 Launch Live Streaming: India's Shubhanshu Shukla set to launch today: Check full schedule, take-off time and how to watch Growing food for the final frontier ISRO, in partnership with Indian universities, is addressing a fundamental question for space exploration: how to grow food in space. Live Events The Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology , along with Kerala Agricultural University, will test six types of crop seeds in microgravity. Once back on Earth, these seeds will be cultivated across generations to observe changes in genetics and select the most viable traits for future space farming . 'We hope to discover space-hardy genes that can revolutionise how we grow food on future Mars or Moon missions,' said Dr S Ajikumar of Kerala Agricultural University. A second experiment, co-ordinated by the University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad and IIT Dharwad, will focus on salad seed germination. Researchers will monitor growth rates, nutritional value, and microbial load to understand how space affects these plants from seed to harvest. Also Read: Cosmic comeback: After 40 years, India embarks on a new space odyssey with IAF's Shubhanshu Shukla aboard Axiom-4 Microscopic Powerhouses: Cyanobacteria and algae Cyanobacteria—photosynthetic bacteria—are being studied for their potential to support life in space. These microbes could produce oxygen, process waste, and even serve as food. ISRO, working with the International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB) and the European Space Agency (ESA), is sending two cyanobacteria strains into orbit. Scientists will examine their growth, cellular activity, and biochemical responses to microgravity. 'Our goal is to design life support systems where microbes work for us—producing air, processing waste, and even feeding future astronauts,' said Dr Ravi Gupta of ICGEB. A second experiment from ICGEB and the National Institute of Plant Genome Research (NIPGR) will explore the behaviour of three strains of microalgae in space. These algae are considered future candidates for producing oxygen and food during long-duration missions. Also Read: Axiom's Shubhanshu Shukla to join elite astronaut club today: From roaring MiGs, Su-30s to floating in microgravity Myogenesis: Fighting space-induced muscle loss Muscle degradation is one of the major physical challenges astronauts face. The Myogenesis experiment, led by the Institute of Stem Cell Science and Regenerative Medicine (InStem), aims to understand why this happens. Astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla will help conduct this study in space, examining the cellular pathways involved in muscle atrophy and testing potential therapies to counteract it. 'Our research could one day help astronauts stay fit in space—and assist the elderly or immobile patients back on Earth,' said Dr Shruti Naik of InStem. Tardigrades: The space survivors Tardigrades, also known as water bears, are tiny creatures known for their ability to survive extreme environments. The Voyager Tardigrade project, co-ordinated by the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), will send these hardy micro-animals to space to study how they revive, reproduce, and adapt. Researchers will compare the space-flown tardigrades with control groups on Earth to understand the biological mechanisms behind their resilience. 'If we can understand how tardigrades survive such harsh conditions, we can potentially design better biological systems and life-support technologies for deep space missions,' said Dr Karan Sinha of IISc. Screens in Space: A new kind of stress test Human-computer interaction changes in space. The Voyager Displays experiment, also from IISc, will study how astronauts respond to digital screens in microgravity. Tasks involving eye movement, screen pointing, and gaze fixation will be analysed alongside the astronauts' reported stress and cognitive load. The goal is to design spacecraft interfaces that reduce fatigue and improve usability under zero-gravity conditions. STEMonstrations: Bringing space into Indian classrooms In addition to scientific studies, ISRO will use this mission to engage students back home. Through four STEMonstration modules, real-time science activities will be shared with Indian schoolchildren. These STEAM-based lessons—combining science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics—aim to inspire and educate students about life and research aboard the ISS. 'These aren't just experiments; they are invitations for Indian students to dream bigger and think beyond Earth,' said an ISRO spokesperson. Axiom Mission 4 is a stepping stone. The research and data gathered will inform India's own Gaganyaan human spaceflight mission, which plans to send three astronauts to Low Earth Orbit for three days. The technologies and findings from Ax-4's seven experiments—across biology, food science, and systems design—will help lay the scientific and operational groundwork for India's independent entry into human space travel. With this mission, India not only contributes to global science but also tests its capabilities for deeper, longer, and more self-reliant journeys into space. Economic Times WhatsApp channel )
Business Wire
10-06-2025
- Science
- Business Wire
Redwire Selected by NASA to Facilitate Biotechnology Research as Part of Historic International Human Spaceflight Mission
JACKSONVILLE, Fla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Redwire Corporation (NYSE: RDW), a leader in space infrastructure for the next- generation space economy, announced today that it has been selected by NASA to facilitate a Space Microalgae biotechnology experiment. The experiment, developed by the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO), the International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), and the National Institute of Plant Genome Research (NIPGR), New Delhi will launch on Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4) to the International Space Station (ISS). The Space Microalgae investigation will analyze the impact of microgravity on the growth, metabolism, and genetic activity of three strains of edible microalgae, which researchers are assessing as a potential sustainable food source for long-duration space missions. For this research mission, Redwire will manage mission integration, scientific fulfillment, and on orbit operations. 'Redwire is proud to be working with NASA, ISRO, the ICGEB, and NIPGR on this multinational biotechnology research effort that could have significant implications for future long-duration spaceflight missions to the Moon and Mars,' said John Vellinger, Redwire's President of In-Space Industries. 'As a global leader in microgravity research and development technologies, it is incredibly exciting to contribute to global scientific progress in sustainable food sources for long-duration space missions. 'We are excited to engage with Redwire to launch this important investigation to the ISS,' said Dr. Shashi Kumar from the ICGEB. 'This work will help advance our knowledge of microalgae as supplement for crew nutrition so critical for the future of long-duration spaceflight. The Government of India's BioE3 (Biotechnology for Economy, Environment, and Employment) policy has an important vertical on space biomanufacturing, and this work is the first space project to be supported under it.' Redwire is the global leader in microgravity research, development, and manufacturing technologies, specializing in space biotechnology, pharmaceutical development, and plant research. Redwire has more than three decades of human spaceflight heritage and experience producing and operating systems and currently owns nine payloads and facilities aboard the ISS, including Redwire's trailblazing BioFabrication Facility and PIL-BOX platform. Leveraging these unique capabilities, Redwire has successfully bio-printed the first-ever human knee meniscus and first live human heart tissue in space and has successfully grown small molecule crystals optimized for drug development in microgravity. Ax-4 will launch an international crew of astronauts from India, Poland, Hungary, and the United States to the ISS marking the second human spaceflight mission for India, Poland, and Hungary. It will also be the first time all three nations will conduct an investigation on board the ISS. About Redwire Redwire Corporation (NYSE:RDW) is a global space infrastructure and innovation company enabling civil, commercial, and national security programs. Redwire's proven and reliable capabilities include avionics, sensors, power solutions, critical structures, mechanisms, radio frequency systems, platforms, missions, and microgravity payloads. Redwire combines decades of flight heritage and proven experience with an agile and innovative culture. Redwire's approximately 750 employees working from 17 facilities located throughout the United States and Europe are committed to building a bold future in space for humanity, pushing the envelope of discovery and science while creating a better world on Earth. For more information, please visit
