India to Conduct First Biological Experiments on ISS in AXIOM-4 Mission
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Event | India's first biological experiments aboard the ISS |
| Mission | AXIOM-4 mission |
| Announcement Date | May 16, 2025 |
| Collaborating Agencies | ISRO and Department of Biotechnology (DBT) |
| Policy Framework | BioE3 Policy (Biotechnology for Economy, Environment, and Employment) |
| Key Objectives | - Assess human life support systems in space<br>- Explore sustainable food sources<br>- Advance biomanufacturing in space |
| Experiments | 1. Microalgae Experiment<br>- Study growth in microgravity<br>- Focus on edible microalgae as a nutrient source<br>2. Cyanobacteria Experiment<br>- Study growth and proteomic responses of Spirulina and Synechococcus<br>- Use urea- and nitrate-based media |
| Significance | - Strengthens India's space biosciences<br>- Supports Gaganyaan and future human spaceflight<br>- Promotes food security in space<br>- Aligns with self-reliance in space research |