Shux in space: ISRO's Shubhanshu Shukla conducts bone, radiation, and microgravity experiments on ISS
About the mission and crew
Radiation monitoring and algae deployment
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Microgravity research involving tardigrades and muscle regeneration
Cognitive assessments and interaction with mission scientists
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After a day of scheduled rest, astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla and his fellow Axiom-4 crew members resumed scientific activities aboard the International Space Station ( ISS ) on Saturday, conducting experiments aimed at understanding the effects of microgravity on bones and radiation exposure. These studies are expected to contribute to both astronaut safety on long-duration missions and medical advancements on Earth.The crew took part in the Bone on ISS experiment, which studies how bones degrade in microgravity and recover after returning to Earth. According to Axiom Space, researchers are analysing biological markers related to bone formation, inflammation, and growth to build a 'digital twin' — a virtual simulation model of how bones respond to spaceflight.'This personalised approach could revolutionise astronaut-health screening, allowing mission planners to predict skeletal risks and tailor countermeasures for each individual. Beyond space, the findings may also lead to better treatments for osteoporosis and other bone-related conditions here on Earth,' Axiom Space said in a statement.Shubhanshu Shukla, 39, a native of Lucknow, serves as the mission pilot for Axiom-4. Veteran U.S. astronaut Peggy Whitson is the commander, while Hungarian Tibor Kapu and Polish astronaut Slawosz Uznanski-Wisniewski serve as mission specialists. Shukla, whose call sign is "Shux", is part of the 14-day commercial mission operated by Axiom Space.On the tenth flight day, Shukla also participated in an experiment to monitor radiation levels aboard the ISS. This research is expected to support protective strategies for astronauts on missions farther from Earth.In addition, Shukla deployed samples for the Space Micro Algae investigation. The experiment focuses on understanding the growth and adaptation of microalgae in space , with potential applications for life support systems such as food, fuel, and air production in future space habitats.According to the Indian Space Research Organisation ( ISRO ), Shukla also completed a microgravity experiment involving tardigrades. The study explored their survival, revival, and reproductive behaviour in space, with the findings expected to improve understanding of extremophile resilience and potential therapeutic applications on Earth.Shukla is also involved in the myogenesis study, which investigates the impact of microgravity on human muscle regeneration. The experiment is progressing with planned interventions and observation recordings in line with established protocols.As part of the Electronic Displays human research study, Shukla has been conducting daily software-based cognitive and interface assessments. The goal is to enhance crew interaction with digital systems in space environments.He and other Axiom-4 crew members are scheduled to interact with Axiom Space's chief scientist, Lucie Low, on Sunday to discuss progress on the 60 science experiments planned for the 14-day mission.In parallel, additional Indian experiments studying selected strains of microalgae and cyanobacteria under space conditions continue aboard the ISS, contributing to ongoing research in regenerative life-support systems and space nutrition.(With inputs from PTI)
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