India is set to expand its horizons in space research with seven microgravity experiments planned for the International Space Station (ISS). These experiments, scheduled for the upcoming Axiom-4 mission (Ax-4) in May, mark a significant step in India's space program. The mission will include Indian astronaut Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla.
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has shortlisted these experiments from various national R&D labs and academic institutions. The research spans diverse fields, including human health, physical and life sciences, and material research. It also covers novel pharmaceutical development and biotechnology.
These experiments aim to study the impact of microgravity on various biological and physical systems. This includes research on edible microalgae, salad seed sprouting, cyanobacteria growth, and the survival of eutardigrades. Other areas of study include human interaction with electronic displays and muscle regeneration under microgravity conditions. The experience gained is expected to foster a microgravity research ecosystem in India.
According to ISRO, microgravity research holds immense potential for various applications. These applications include advancements in human health, materials science, and biotechnology. The experiments will utilize existing research facilities on the ISS, maximizing the efficiency of the mission. India's space program will be advanced through the induction of advanced microgravity experiments in various disciplines.
The selected institutions include the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), the Institute of Stem Cell Science and Regenerative Medicine (InStem), and the University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad. These experiments represent a collaborative effort to push the boundaries of scientific knowledge in space. This initiative, announced on April 28, 2025, promises to unlock new possibilities in space research and its applications.