Lagatar24 Desk
Bengaluru: Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla, currently aboard the International Space Station (ISS) as part of the Axiom-4 (Ax-4) mission, has successfully completed four out of seven ISRO-led microgravity experiments. According to ISRO, the remaining three experiments are in advanced stages and are expected to conclude soon.
Key Experiments Offer Insights for Future Missions
The completed experiments include studies on:
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Tardigrades (Bengaluru strain): Examining survival, revival, reproduction, and genetic changes in microgravity.
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Myogenesis: Investigating how space conditions affect human muscle cell development.
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Sprouting of Methi and Moong Seeds: Exploring implications for in-orbit nutrition and food sustainability.
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Cyanobacteria: Monitoring growth of two variants for potential roles in closed-loop life support systems.
“These experiments are now being packed for their return to Earth for further analysis,” ISRO stated.
The three experiments nearing completion involve:
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Microalgae: Researching its viability and potential applications in space.
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Crop Seeds: Studying growth responses to spaceflight conditions.
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Voyager Display: Details remain undisclosed but are part of the Ax-4 scientific payload.
ISRO highlighted that these investigations are expected to generate critical insights for future projects, including the Gaganyaan human spaceflight mission, India’s proposed space station, and interplanetary exploration.
Shukla Set for Return and Recovery
Shukla, who remains in good health and high spirits, is scheduled to undock from the ISS at 4:35 PM on July 14. Flight surgeons continue to monitor his physical and psychological condition through private medical conferences.
“The Crew Dragon spacecraft carrying the Ax-4 crew is expected to splash down off the coast of California on July 15, 2025, at around 3 PM IST, following a series of re-entry manoeuvres,” ISRO confirmed.
Upon his return, Shukla will undergo a rehabilitation programme lasting approximately seven days to help his body readjust to Earth’s gravity under the supervision of medical experts.
