Latest news with #MissionAkashGanga
NDTV
23-07-2025
- Science
- NDTV
A Daughter Of India Soon To Touch The Stars. ISRO, Government Determined
New Delhi: India's space odyssey is poised to take a historic leap forward, one that would include the country's daughters among its astronauts. In an exclusive conversation with Air Vice Marshal Anupam Agarwal, Assistant Chief of Air Staff (Medical) and a leading space medicine expert, the roadmap for India's inclusive future in space was laid out with clarity and conviction. India will soon get women astronauts as part of Gaganyaan. The Axiom-4 flight, often referred to as Mission Akash Ganga, has already made headlines with the successful return of Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla from the International Space Station. But this is the beginning of an entire process, one that would include women, civilians, and people from all walks of life. Why No Women in the First Cohort The absence of women in the initial astronaut cohort has sparked questions and debate. Air Vice Marshal Agarwal addressed this directly, explaining the constraints faced during the selection process in 2019. "These are unprecedented situations," he said. "When you are building space systems from the ground up, there are many variables that are difficult to fathom at the beginning," he said. In 2019, the Indian Air Force had only male test pilots. Since the first mission required individuals with highly specialized skills to handle unknown and potentially dangerous scenarios, the selection was limited to test pilots. "A test pilot is someone you ask to fly an aircraft that's never flown before, he or she will do it at 1000 kilometres an hour, and land it safely," Air Vice Marshal Agarwal explained. "You need such a person when you're making a spacecraft for the first time. You're not sure about the systems inside it." This skill set, reflexes, adaptability, and the ability to remain calm under pressure, is critical. And in 2019, the pool of qualified candidates with these attributes consisted solely of men. "We didn't have a choice," Air Vice Marshal Agarwal said. "There were no female test pilots in the Indian Armed Forces at that time." Even today, while there are several women fighter pilots in the Indian Air Force, none have reached the seniority level to qualify as test pilots -- which has very stringent qualifying criteria. Global Indians The American space agency NASA has flown women of Indian origin to space like late Astronaut Kalpana Chawla and Astronaut Sunita Williams, but both were citizens of USA. A Future That Includes India's Daughters Despite these initial limitations, the future is bright and inclusive. Air Vice Marshal Agarwal confirmed that women will soon join the astronaut corps. "ISRO has been very particular that we need to be inclusive," he said. "And the Government of India has emphasized this as well. If I dare to look into the future, we should have women soon," he said. Speaking from the ramparts of the Red Fort on Independence Day in 2018, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had also asserted: "We have a dream. Our scientists have a dream. We have resolved... some of our young boys and girls will unfurl the Tricolour in space." This commitment to inclusion is not just symbolic - it reflects a broader expansion of India's vision for space exploration. Future astronauts may not necessarily be scientists or engineers. They could be civilians, educators, artists, or individuals from other professions, representing the full spectrum of Indian society. "India's daughter will go to space soon. This is the order of the Indian government. She will come," Air Vice Marshal said.
NDTV
14-07-2025
- Science
- NDTV
India's Cosmic Leap: Shubhanshu Shukla's Return Journey Begins Today
New Delhi: The epic journey of any Indian in space in the 21st century is beginning at its end. India's Gaganyatri, Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, is packing his bags for his day-long ride to come back to Earth after spending nearly three weeks in space. India's cosmic leap's phase one is ending with the Axiom-4 mission, which is also referred to as Mission Akash Ganga, but this was the easy part. Now, when Astronaut Shukla returns, the hard part will begin when he gets down to translate his learnings to India's own human space flight program, Gaganyaan. India has allocated nearly Rs 33,000 crore for the entire Gaganyaan program, leading up to landing an Indian on the moon by 2040. Axiom Space, the Houston-based private company that spearheaded this trip, announced that after spending 18 eventful days aboard the International Space Station, the Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4) crew is preparing for their journey home. Commander Peggy Whitson, Pilot Shubhanshu "Shux" Shukla, and Mission Specialists Slawosz Uznanski-Wisniewski and Tibor Kapu spent their final day in orbit packing and making final preparations for departure. We don't get in our flight suits often, but chance had us all decked out so we took advantage and took some photos with our new crewmates. In this picture we have eight astronauts representing the United States, Japan, India, Hungary and Poland. It's been a pleasure getting to… — Jonny Kim (@JonnyKimUSA) July 13, 2025 This mission not only marks Mr Shukla as the second Indian astronaut in space-following Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma's historic flight in 1984-but also positions India as a serious contender in the global space community. Mr Sharma spent a little over 7 days in space aboard the Soviet space station Salyut-7. Now, Mr Shukla became the first Indian to visit the ISS and has spent nearly three weeks in space. Incidentally, Mr Shukla was not even born when Mr Sharma undertook that journey, but 39-year-old Shukla is truly defining the future of human space flight for India. India's Gaganyatri or astronaut is likely to return to Earth around 3 pm India time on July 15, and he will reach terra firma near the coast of California, said the Indian space agency, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). Axiom Space said to celebrate the end of their mission, the Ax-4 astronauts participated in a traditional farewell ceremony alongside NASA's Expedition crew - a moment that highlighted the camaraderie, collaboration, and global unity.' Speaking at the farewell ceremony, Mr Shukla said, "One thing that really sticks with me is what humanity is capable of when all of us come together from different parts of the world and work for a common goal or a common objective. It is truly incredible." This mission, dubbed Akash Ganga, is a collaborative effort between Axiom Space Inc., NASA, and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), and represents a significant step forward in India's human spaceflight ambitions, including the upcoming Gaganyaan mission and the proposed Bhartiya Antariksha Station. Mr Shukla and three crew lifted off from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida on June 25. They docked to the space station on June 26, and if all goes well, especially weather permitting in the descent corridor, the mission, which Mr Shukla is piloting, will safely splash down on July 15. India's cosmic leap is now nearing the beginning of its end. ISRO has revealed that the splashdown will take place on July 15, at 15:00 IST. Earlier, according to NASA's Commercial Crew Program Manager Steve Stitch, the undocking of the Crew Dragon spacecraft carrying Mr Shukla and three other astronauts is scheduled for July 14, at 16:30 IST. Following a series of orbital manoeuvres, the spacecraft is expected to splash down in the Pacific Ocean near the coast of California, USA. During his stay aboard the ISS, Mr Shukla conducted seven India-specific microgravity experiments, showcasing India's growing capabilities in space science and technology. These experiments are designed to generate critical data for future planetary missions and long-duration space habitation. The Indian space agency said, "ISRO's flight surgeons are continuously monitoring & ensuring the overall health and fitness of the Gaganyatri through participation in private medical/psychological conferences. Gaganyatri Shubhanshu is in good health condition and in high spirit." Mr Shukla said, "Now as my journey is about to end, your and my journey is still very long. Our human space mission journey is very long and very difficult as well. But I assure you that if we make a decision, even stars are attainable. 41 years ago, an Indian went to space, and he told us what India looks like from space. And somewhere, I feel that we all want to know how India looks today. Let me tell you. Today's India looks magnificent from space. Today's India looks fearless. Today's India looks confident. Today's India looks full of pride. And because of all these reasons, I can once again say that today's India still looks better than any other country. Let's meet on Earth soon."
News18
10-07-2025
- Science
- News18
'Only A Mother Knows': Kin In Lucknow Await Shubhanshu Shukla's Return With Prayers & Delicacies
Last Updated: A few days ago, the family was on a satellite video call with Shukla from ISS where they saw him floating in zero gravity, surrounded by lab equipment and experimental modules As India's Gaganyatri and Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla inches closer to his return from the International Space Station (ISS), the sense of anticipation is palpable back home in Lucknow. The Shukla family, that was grappling with anxiety during his historic lift-off a fortnight ago, now finds itself on a more stable emotional footing—thanks largely to Shubhanshu's calm composure and reassuring presence, even from space. 'He calls almost every day. And every time he sounds so calm, so confident—it gives us strength too," said Suchi Shukla, his sister, while speaking to News18. She said that going away was tougher. 'The launch day was something we had never experienced before. But now, we are more confident. He has made us comfortable, and for that, all the credit goes to him," she said. India's first astronaut aboard the ISS, Shukla is part of the international Axiom Mission 4, also referred to as 'Mission Akash Ganga'. The mission entered its 14th day on Wednesday, which means Shukla can now return any day next week, depending on weather conditions and other factors. Shukla and his crewmates are expected to spend close to three weeks in space—making it the longest Indian presence aboard the ISS to date. 'His Confidence Gave Us Confidence' For the family, the journey has been deeply emotional. 'We want a safe return. But this time we are more confident. Earlier, watching him go away was very tough," said Asha Shukla, his mother. 'Now we feel comfortable. I try to pretend that everything is normal, but only a mother knows," she said. Asha Shukla reveals that since the launch, the family has been in constant prayer. 'We haven't made any special plans for his return yet. But his favourite dishes are already being prepared," she says with a smile. 'It's our way of telling ourselves he's coming back soon." A Call from Space that Brought Earthly Comfort Just a couple of days ago, the family experienced a moment that brought space closer than ever—a satellite video call with Shubhanshu from the ISS. The brief but emotional interaction showed scenes from inside the space station and allowed the family to see their son floating in zero gravity, surrounded by lab equipment and experimental modules. 'It felt surreal," said Suchi. 'For a moment, it didn't feel like he was thousands of kilometres away in space. He was smiling, speaking normally, and showing us around. That one call made everything feel okay." The video call, made possible through Axiom's private communication channel, also gave his mother the reassurance she needed. 'He looked healthy, his eyes were sparkling. That moment calmed all my fears," Asha added. A Mission Beyond Borders and Expectations Shukla's work aboard the ISS has drawn admiration from the global scientific community. In a recent conversation with Dr Lucie Low, Chief Scientist at Axiom Space, Shukla detailed the wide-ranging Indian research portfolio he is executing in microgravity. These studies, developed in collaboration with ISRO and Indian academic institutions, span vital domains, including space biology, agriculture, psychology, and sustainable food systems. 'This mission is actually opening the doors for microgravity or space research for Indian scientists," Shukla said. 'It's a privilege to be the medium through which India's experiments are being executed in space." Among the marquee experiments is a stem cell study exploring whether muscle regeneration can be accelerated with nutritional supplements. Conducted inside the ISS glove box, this could revolutionise both space medicine and treatments on Earth. Sprouting Moong and Methi in Space In another experiment close to Indian homes, Shukla is observing how Moong beans and Fenugreek (Methi) seeds germinate in zero gravity. These are part of a larger goal: to understand how space conditions affect genetic expression, nutritional value, and multi-generational plant growth. Though he will not eat the sprouts, their journey through space could inform future farming techniques for long-duration missions and improve food security. Understanding the Human Mind in Space Shukla is also taking part in 'Voyager Displays'—a cognitive psychology experiment that examines how microgravity impacts the way astronauts interact with digital screens. The study tracks gaze fixation, pointing accuracy, and cognitive load, and could help design smarter interfaces for spacecraft and remote mission control systems on Earth. Microalgae and Tardigrades: Testing the Limits of Life Another crucial experiment involves growing microalgae in space to assess its role as a sustainable food source and oxygen supplier. He is also working on an investigation into tardigrades—tiny resilient aquatic organisms—to understand how they survive cosmic radiation and ultra-low temperatures. These studies are not just academic exercises; they are vital to sustaining life in deep space. 'Thank you, Shux," said Low during their conversation, adding: 'That's fantastic, and thank you for all your hard work doing all the science in the glove box and for the entire ISRO portfolio." Strategic Collaboration Between ISRO and NASA The Axiom-4 mission is the culmination of a strategic partnership between NASA and ISRO—fulfilling a commitment made during the tenures of Presidents Donald Trump and Joe Biden, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, to send an Indian astronaut to the ISS. The mission also includes five confidential human biology studies and STEM education modules conducted jointly by the two agencies. Earlier, Union science minister Dr Jitendra Singh had said Shukla's mission covers space tech, bio-manufacturing, and astronautics—making it a landmark moment for Indian space science. As the family awaits his return, a sense of peace has replaced the earlier restlessness. 'We're all into prayers," says Asha quietly, gazing at a framed photo of her son in uniform. 'This time, they are not prayers of fear, but of gratitude and hope." Get breaking news, in-depth analysis, and expert perspectives on everything from politics to crime and society. Stay informed with the latest India news only on News18. Download the News18 App to stay updated! tags : International Space Station ISRO ISS nasa Shubhanshu Shukla view comments Location : Lucknow, India, India First Published: July 10, 2025, 08:52 IST News india 'Only A Mother Knows': Kin In Lucknow Await Shubhanshu Shukla's Return With Prayers & Delicacies Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
NDTV
09-07-2025
- Science
- NDTV
"Opening Doors For Space Research For Indians": Shubhanshu Shukla On Axiom Mission
India's Gaganyatri and Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla in at the International Space Station (ISS) doing scientific research. Group Captain Shukla, who is part of the Axiom Mission 4, or what is sometimes also referred to as Mission Akash Ganga, is India's first astronaut aboard the ISS. In a conversation with Dr Lucie Low, the chief scientist at Axiom Space, he shared an update on how he has been busy doing the scientific experiments at the space station. He highlighted the breadth and significance of the Indian research portfolio he is executing in microgravity, marking a new chapter in India's space exploration journey. He also expressed immense pride in being the conduit for Indian scientists and researchers, bringing their experiments to life aboard the ISS. "This mission is actually kind of opening the doors for microgravity or space research for Indian researchers and scientists," he said, emphasising the collaborative efforts between the Indian space agency, ISRO, and national institutions across India. The research spans multiple disciplines, including stem cell therapy, agricultural science, cognitive psychology, and micro-foods. Group Captain Shukla detailed his work on stem cell research, which he described as particularly exciting. In this experiment, scientists are exploring whether adding supplements to the stem cells of muscles can accelerate healing and tissue regeneration. Conducted inside the station's glove box, this study could have far-reaching implications for both space medicine and terrestrial healthcare. Another key area of investigation involves studying the effects of microgravity on seeds, specifically Moong beans and Fenugreek (Methi), which are used in Indian diets. These experiments aim to understand how space conditions influence germination, genetic expression, and nutritional content across generations. The findings could inform future space farming strategies and enhance food security for long-duration missions. He will sprout these in space, but will not be able to eat them there. Group Captain Shukla also mentioned research evaluating cognitive load on astronauts interacting with digital screens. This study, known as Voyager Displays, examines how microgravity affects human-machine interaction, including gaze fixation, pointing accuracy, and stress levels. The results could lead to improved interface designs for spacecraft and even benefit aviation and remote operations on Earth. In addition to these, Group Captain Shukla is conducting experiments on microalgae growth and the survival of tardigrades-tiny aquatic organisms known for their resilience. The microalgae study investigates their potential as a sustainable food source and life support component, while the tardigrade experiment seeks to understand how these organisms withstand extreme space conditions, including cosmic radiation and ultra-low temperatures. Dr Low responded with admiration, thanking Group Captain Shukla for his dedication and hard work. "Thank you, Shux (Group Captain Shukla's call sign), that's fantastic, and thank you for all your hard work doing all of the science in the glove box and for the entire ISRO portfolio," she said, acknowledging the significance of his contributions. This mission, a product of the partnership between NASA and ISRO, fulfils a commitment made by former US President Joe Biden and incumbent President Donald Trump, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi to send an Indian astronaut to the ISS. It also includes doing five secret joint science human biology investigations between NASA and ISRO and two STEM demonstrations, reinforcing the shared vision of both agencies to advance scientific knowledge and expand space collaboration. Earlier, Union Science Minister Dr Jitendra Singh had noted that Group Captain Shukla's focus areas include space technology, space bio-manufacturing, and bio-astronautics. This mission not only marks India's entry into high-end space research but also sets the stage for future collaborations and innovations in the field. His work aboard the ISS is a testament to India's growing capabilities in space science and its commitment to contributing meaningfully to global research efforts.
NDTV
02-07-2025
- Health
- NDTV
Muscles, Microbes, And Microgravity: India's First Biology Experiments In Space
New Delhi: India has taken its first bold steps into space biology with a series of pioneering experiments aboard the International Space Station (ISS), as part of the Axiom-4 mission-referred to by some as Mission Akash Ganga. These experiments, conducted by Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, mark a significant milestone in India's scientific and technological journey, exploring how biological systems behave in microgravity and radiation-rich environments. At the heart of this initiative is the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), under the leadership of Dr Rajesh Gokhale, Secretary of DBT. In an exclusive conversation with NDTV, Dr Gokhale described the mission as a "floating lab in space" that will help India understand biological adaptability in ways never tested before. The experiments are designed to explore fundamental questions about human health, sustainability, and bio-manufacturing in space. Muscle Stem Cell Regeneration In Microgravity One of the flagship experiments led by DBT focuses on skeletal muscle stem cells. Conducted by the Institute for Stem Cell Science and Regenerative Medicine (InStem) in Bengaluru, this study investigates how microgravity affects the regeneration of muscle tissue. In space, the absence of gravitational force leads to muscle and bone mass reduction, a phenomenon well-documented in astronauts. Dr Gokhale explained that the experiment will compare muscle stem cell behaviour in space with those grown under Earth conditions. The goal is to understand whether the regenerative capacity of these cells is compromised in microgravity. This research could have far-reaching implications - not only for astronaut health during long-duration missions but also for treating age-related muscle degeneration and diseases like muscular dystrophy on Earth. The experiment explores the role of mitochondria - the powerhouse of the cell - in maintaining muscle health. Mitochondrial dysfunction is a known contributor to muscle loss. DBT scientists are testing two compounds: dihydrofolate and a thiol-containing amino acid, both known to enhance mitochondrial function. By supplementing these chemicals in space-grown muscle cells, researchers aim to determine whether mitochondrial regeneration can be achieved in microgravity. If successful, this could lead to new therapeutic strategies for muscle recovery in space and on Earth, particularly for conditions like sarcopenia and cachexia. Edible Microalgae Cultivation One DBT-led experiment involves growing edible microalgae in space. Conducted by the International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB) in Delhi, this study examines how three species of microalgae adapt to space conditions. These algae are photosynthetic organisms that absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen - making them ideal candidates for life support systems in space. Dr Gokhale emphasised the dual benefits of this experiment: oxygen generation and food production. Microalgae could serve as bio-regenerators in future missions like Gaganyaan, replacing traditional chemical-based systems like zeolites. Their ability to grow continuously and be consumed makes them a sustainable solution for long-term space habitation. Cyanobacteria For Nutrient Recycling Another innovative experiment focuses on cyanobacteria, known for their ability to recycle nutrients. Human urine, rich in urea and nitrogen, presents a challenge in closed-loop space environments. This study investigates how cyanobacteria assimilate nitrogen from both organic (urea) and inorganic (nitrate) sources. The aim is to convert waste into usable resources-a concept Dr Gokhale described as "waste to wealth in space". Understanding how these bacteria function in microgravity could lead to efficient nutrient recycling systems for future space stations and planetary habitats. Seed Sprouting And Crop Growth India is also conducting experiments on seed sprouting, involving crops like fenugreek (methi) and moong or green gram. These seeds are being grown in space to observe changes in growth patterns and microbial interactions. Although the sprouted seeds will not be consumed by Mr Shukla, they will be returned to Earth for detailed analysis. This experiment is part of a broader effort to understand how Indian crop varieties respond to space conditions. It could pave the way for space farming and food security in extra-terrestrial environments. Eye Function And Screen Exposure While not directly under DBT, another experiment examines how prolonged exposure to screens affects eye function in space. Vision problems have been reported among astronauts, and this study aims to understand the physiological changes that occur in microgravity. It adds a critical dimension to astronaut health research. Water Bears (Tardigrades) Reproduction A particularly intriguing experiment involves tardigrades, microscopic organisms known for their resilience. Researchers are studying their reproductive cycle in space, specifically whether they can lay and hatch eggs under microgravity conditions. This could offer insights into how complex biological processes like reproduction are affected by space environments. Seeds For Genetic Analysis India is also sending seeds of various crop varieties to space, not for growth but for genetic analysis upon return. This experiment, though previously conducted by other nations, carries an Indian signature and aims to understand how space exposure affects genetic traits. Implications For Bio-Manufacturing And Policy These experiments align with India's Bio-E3 policy - Biotechnology for Economy, Environment, and Employment - approved by the Cabinet and championed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Dr Gokhale highlighted that DBT's collaboration with ISRO is part of a long-term roadmap extending to 2040. The insights gained from these studies could revolutionise bio-manufacturing, especially in areas like carbon dioxide fixation and metabolic engineering. For example, algae used in space could be adapted to trap industrial emissions on Earth, offering sustainable solutions to climate challenges. A Vision For Viksit Bharat Dr Gokhale emphasised the transformative potential of cross-disciplinary science. From sports medicine to space biology, DBT is expanding its horizons to contribute to Viksit Bharat - a developed India. The department's pioneering role in biotechnology, from GM mustard to COVID vaccines, now extends to the final frontier, space. As India steps into the realm of space biology, these "baby steps" could soon become giant leaps, shaping the future of human health, sustainability, and innovation both in orbit and on Earth. India has big ambitions in space, from launching an Indian to space in 2027, having a space station by 2035 and landing an Indian on the moon by 2040. Group Captain Shukla has in fact laid the first firm footsteps for India's ambitious human space flight mission.
