Team TrickyScribe: Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and the European Space Agency (ESA) have recently signed a groundbreaking agreement to collaborate on astronaut training, mission implementation, and research experiments. This partnership opens new avenues for conducting joint microgravity experiments, enhancing India’s role in global space research.
Microgravity Experiments Selected for ISS Axiom-4 Mission
As part of this collaboration, ISRO and ESA have jointly shortlisted two cutting-edge microgravity research experiments proposed by Indian Principal Investigators (PIs). These experiments will be implemented aboard the International Space Station (ISS) during the upcoming Axiom-4 mission:
- Cyanobacteria Growth and Proteomics in Microgravity
This experiment studies how cyanobacteria respond to urea and nitrate in microgravity conditions.
Conducted by the International Centre for Genetic Engineering & Biotechnology (ICGEB) in collaboration with the Department of Biotechnology, the study aims to enhance understanding of microbial behavior in space.
- Impact of Microgravity on Growth and Yield of Food Crop Seeds
This research focuses on how microgravity affects the growth and yield of food crops, which is critical for future space farming.
Led by the Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology (IIST), Department of Space, and Kerala Agricultural University’s College of Agriculture, Vellayani, the findings could revolutionize sustainable food production for long-duration space missions.
Rigorous Evaluation Process for Space Safety
Currently, these experiments are undergoing comprehensive safety evaluations to ensure compliance with human spaceflight mission protocols. Given the stringent operational requirements of space research, ISRO and ESA are conducting thorough assessments before final deployment.
Expanding Global Cooperation in Microgravity Research
Beyond ESA, ISRO is actively engaging with other space agencies to expand microgravity research opportunities during the Axiom-4 mission. These international collaborations aim to strengthen India’s footprint in advanced space experiments and scientific discovery.
Microgravity Research: A Catalyst for Scientific Advancements
Microgravity research holds immense potential across various fields, including human health, physical sciences, material sciences, pharmaceuticals, and biotechnology. The insights gained from these studies could lead to groundbreaking innovations in medicine, sustainable agriculture, and space-based manufacturing.
Gaganyaan’s Role in Fostering Microgravity Research
India’s ambitious Gaganyaan Human Spaceflight Program aims to promote and support microgravity research through both ISRO-led missions and international collaborations. By providing flight opportunities for Indian scientists, Gaganyaan seeks to position India at the forefront of space research and innovation.
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