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- Explore sustainable food sources- Advance biomanufacturing in space |
| Experiments | 1. Microalgae Experiment- Study growth in microgravity- Focus on edible microalgae as a nutrient source2. Cyanobacteria Experiment- Study growth and proteomic responses of Spirulina and Synechococcus- Use urea- and nitrate-based media |
| Significance | - Strengthens India's space biosciences- Supports Gaganyaan and future human spaceflight- Promotes food security in space- Aligns with self-reliance in space research |