What experiments did Shubhanshu Shukla conduct aboard the ISS?

Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla conducted seven major Indian scientific experiments during his Axiom-4 (Ax-4) mission on the International Space Station (ISS), focusing on life sciences, space farming, and crew health. The key experiments were:

• Muscle Atrophy Study – Investigated how microgravity affects muscle growth and degeneration, to improve astronaut fitness and muscle disease treatments.
• Seed Germination (Moong & Methi) – Studied how Indian crops like green gram and fenugreek sprout and grow in space, supporting future space farming.
• Tardigrade Survival – Explored how Indian tardigrade species survive extreme space conditions, enhancing knowledge on biological resilience.
• Cyanobacteria Growth – Tested cyanobacteria strains for oxygen production and air recycling in space life support systems.
• Microalgae Cultivation – Analyzed growth and gene expression of microalgae, with applications in space food, fuel, and bio-support systems.
• Voyager Display (Digital Behavior Study) – Monitored astronaut screen interaction and stress levels to optimize spacecraft interface design.
• Radiation and Health Monitoring – Measured space radiation exposure and astronaut health using dosimeters and wearable sensors.

These experiments are expected to boost India’s human spaceflight program, including Gaganyaan, and contribute to global space research.