New Delhi: In a moment of immense pride for India, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology, Dr. Jitendra Singh announced the successful docking of the Dragon spacecraft with the International Space Station (ISS), carrying seven indigenously developed Indian scientific experiments along with Indian Air Force’s Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla and three other international crew members. The mission, part of Axiom-4, is a milestone not just in India’s space exploration journey, but also in advancing space sustainability through indigenous scientific innovation.
Embodiment of ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ and ‘Vishwabandhu Bharat’
Living up to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a self-reliant and globally contributive India, Dr. Singh highlighted that all seven experiments aboard the ISS are indigenously developed by Indian institutions. These breakthroughs are not only set to benefit India but will also be shared with the global scientific community — an embodiment of the philosophies of Atmanirbhar Bharat and Vishwabandhu Bharat.
“India’s role in space exploration is no longer limited to the launchpad. We are now shaping the future of life and science in space,” said Dr. Singh.
Overview of the Seven Indigenous Experiments
Dr. Jitendra Singh elaborated on the seven cutting-edge microgravity experiments to be conducted by Shubhanshu Shukla. Each one is a pioneering effort in the field of space biosciences and sustainability.
1. Edible Microalgae Study (ICGEB & BRIC-NIPGR, New Delhi)
Focused on the growth and metabolism of three varieties of edible microalgae, this experiment has vital implications for space nutrition, CO₂-to-O₂ conversion, and wastewater recycling, essential for long-term missions.
2. Sprouting Seeds in Space (UAS Dharwad & IIT Dharwad)
This experiment evaluates the germination and nutrition of moong and methi seeds in space. The results could lead to new astronaut dietary supplements and insights into their medicinal properties in microgravity.
3. Muscle Loss & Regeneration (BRIC-InStem, Bengaluru)
Addressing a major health issue in space, this project mimics muscle regeneration in microgravity. The findings could benefit space travelers and also aid Earth-based therapy for muscle disorders.
4. Tardigrades and Survival Biology (IISc Bengaluru)
Known for their extreme resilience, tardigrades will be studied under microgravity to understand biological adaptability, possibly opening doors for human survival strategies in deep space and harsh Earth environments.
5. Human-Computer Interaction in Space (IISc Bengaluru)
This study aims to optimize digital interface perception in space. By analyzing how astronauts interact with electronic displays, the experiment will improve the design of control systems and space consoles.
6. Cyanobacteria Growth Using Urea (ICGEB, New Delhi)
Focusing on cyanobacteria as a superfood, this experiment evaluates its growth using urea in space. This could pave the way for sustainable food, nitrogen, and carbon recycling systems during long missions.
7. Seed Resilience Trials in Microgravity
Seeds of rice, cowpea, sesame, brinjal, and tomato will be tested for resilience post-exposure to space conditions. The goal: create climate-resilient crops for space and challenging Earth environments.
India: From Spacefaring to Space Innovating Nation
Dr. Singh emphasized that India is no longer merely a participant in global space missions but is actively leading with innovation and planetary relevance.
“These experiments signify India’s transformation into a global leader in space biosciences. We are shaping sustainable life in space and contributing to resilient ecosystems on Earth,” he asserted.
This mission marks a pivotal chapter in India’s scientific narrative — one that showcases how Made-in-India technologies are not just reaching for the stars, but helping build the future of humanity beyond Earth.
For more details, check press release on PIB website.
For more real-time updates, visit Channel 6 Network.
