Latest news with #Tardigrades
Time of India
7 days ago
- Science
- Time of India
Shubhanshu Shukla completes 7 experiments on ISS: ISRO
Captain Shubhanshu Shukla and Crewmates -- veteran astronaut Peggy Whitson (US) as commander, Polish engineer Slawosz Uznanski, and Hungarian researcher Tibor Kapu pose for a picture ahead of undocking. Astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla successfully concluded all microgravity experiments during the Axiom-4 mission, marking a significant achievement for ISRO. The experiments included studies on Tardigrades, Myogenesis, seed sprouting, Cyanobacteria, Microalgae, and Voyager Display. Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads Astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla has successfully completed all seven microgravity experiments and other planned activities, achieving a significant milestone in the Axiom-4 mission, ISRO said on said that experiments on the Indian strain of Tardigrades, Myogenesis, Sprouting of methi and moong seeds, Cyanobacteria, Microalgae, Crop seeds and Voyager Display have been completed as July 13, 2025, the Expedition 73 Crew members onboard International Space Station ( ISS ) joined Axiom-4 crew members, including ISRO's Gaganyatri, for a farewell ceremony ahead of the departure of the Axiom-4 mission crew from ISS."Gaganyatri Shubhanshu Shukla, while speaking at the farewell ceremony, thanked Expedition 73 crew members for their support along with team ISRO for developing a scientific research portfolio, associated protocols as well as designing student outreach activities with national participation," ISRO and three other astronauts of the Axiom-4 mission began their return journey to Earth on Monday as the Dragon Grace spacecraft undocked from the International Space Station after an 18-day a series of orbital manoeuvres after undocking, the Dragon spacecraft is expected to splash down near the coast of California on Tuesday at 3.01 pm Industry Association-India Director General Anil Prakash said Shukla's 18-day mission aboard the ISS isn't just a milestone; it heralds India's leap into the space-biotech frontier."This mission, made possible through strategic private-sector engagement, showcases a powerful public-private partnership, transforming space research into sustainable biotech innovation," Prakash said."SIA-India applauds this collaborative breakthrough in propelling India from space exploration to global space-driven biotech leadership," Prakash his stay at the ISS, Shukla interacted with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, school students, and also connected with ISRO centres using amateur radio.
NDTV
08-07-2025
- Science
- NDTV
Growing Methi To Studying Muscle Cells: Top Biologist Lists Space Experiments
India is poised to mark a historic milestone in its space exploration journey as an Indian astronaut, Shubhanshu Shukla, or Gaganyatri, completes more than half his mission at the International Space Station (ISS) aboard the Axiom 4 mission, launched via SpaceX's Falcon 9 Crew Dragon. This 14-day mission, a collaboration between ISRO, NASA, and Axiom Space, sees the astronaut conduct seven scientific experiments that could help in future of space biology and sustainability in long-duration missions. In an exclusive conversation with NDTV, NASA biologist Dr Sharmila Bhattacharya, and a guest speaker at the Ashoka University, shared detailed insights into some of the Indian experiments and their significance. Dr Bhattacharya, who has flown at least nine experiments on the ISS and trained astronauts, including Sunita Williams, expressed her excitement about India's growing role in space science. Recently, on July 4, ISRO gave an update suggesting that 'Gaganyatri has successfully completed the microgravity experiment involving Tardigrades on board ISS.' In addition, ISRO aims to inspire students and the public by bringing the experience of space closer to Earth through its outreach activities. The microgravity environment provides a great tool to demonstrate scientific principles. During this mission, the Gaganyatri is also conducting science demonstrations on board the ISS, as part of ISRO's planned scientific outreach activity. Sprouting Indian Nutrition in Space One of the most anticipated experiments is titled "Sprouts," led by Dr Ravikumar Hosamani, a former postdoctoral fellow in Dr Bhattacharya's lab. This experiment involves sprouting two culturally and nutritionally significant Indian plants-fenugreek (methi) and green gram (moong dal)-in microgravity. These plants were chosen for their high nutritional value and potential health benefits, including support for bone density, cardiovascular health, and immune function. "These seeds will be sprouted in space, returned to Earth, and analysed for how they responded to the space environment," said Dr Bhattacharya. "This is the first time these specific seeds are being flown, and the data could be invaluable for future space diets." Although the astronaut won't be consuming the sprouts during the mission, the experiment will assess microbial growth and viability, paving the way for future edible space crops. Crop Seeds and Space Agriculture Another experiment, "Crop Seeds on ISS," is being led by Dr Kumaran Sreejalekshmi from the Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology (IIST) in Kerala. This study will expose various Indian crop seeds to the space environment and analyse their germination and growth upon return. While similar studies have been conducted by NASA, ESA, and China, Dr Bhattacharya emphasised the importance of repeating such experiments with region-specific crops. "The more data we gather, especially with seeds relevant to Indian diets, the better we can prepare for sustainable agriculture in space," she noted. Cyanobacteria And Microalgae: Life Support And Beyond Two additional experiments will explore the use of cyanobacteria and microalgae-organisms known for their ability to photosynthesise and produce oxygen. These studies aim to evaluate their potential in environmental control and life support systems (ECLSS) aboard spacecraft. "Cyanobacteria can help regulate oxygen and carbon dioxide levels, while microalgae could serve as both a food supplement and a source of biofuel," explained Dr Bhattacharya. "Understanding how these organisms behave in space is crucial for long-term missions." Myogenesis: Studying Muscle Loss in Space The "Myogenesis" experiment will investigate muscle cell degradation in microgravity. Muscle loss is a well-documented challenge for astronauts, and this study aims to identify biological changes and potential countermeasures. "In vitro studies allow us to examine cellular responses in detail, which is not always possible with human subjects," said Dr Bhattacharya. "This research could inform exercise routines, dietary supplements, or medications to mitigate muscle loss." Visual-Motor-Spatial Adaptation Another experiment will focus on how astronauts' visual and spatial orientation is affected by prolonged exposure to microgravity. Using computer display screens and specialised algorithms, the study will monitor changes in perception and coordination. "Even though astronauts are highly capable, subtle changes in visual-motor function can occur," said Dr Bhattacharya. "This experiment will help us understand and possibly improve how astronauts interact with digital systems in space." A Personal Connection to India's Space Journey Dr Bhattacharya shared a personal anecdote about training Sunita Williams in 2004, long before Williams became a household name in space exploration. "She was in my class of four astronauts, and we spent a month together in Woods Hole, Massachusetts. We've stayed in touch ever since," she said warmly. Williams, known for her love of Indian food and dubbed the "samosa-eating astronaut," exemplifies the deep cultural and scientific ties between India and NASA. Building Toward India's Space Future These experiments are not just isolated studies-they are stepping stones toward India's broader ambitions, including establishing its space station and sending an astronaut to the Moon by 2040, as envisioned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. "Doing science in space is not easy," Dr Bhattacharya emphasised. "You need approvals, safety checks, and efficient use of mass, volume, and power. But these baby steps by India are essential. The more data we gather now, the better prepared we'll be for future missions." She praised the collaborative nature of the Axiom 4 mission, calling it a model for international cooperation. "Science is best done collectively. ISRO's partnership with NASA and Axiom is a great example of how nations can work together to push the boundaries of knowledge."
Time of India
05-07-2025
- Science
- Time of India
Axiom-4: Bengaluru 'water bears' serve their purpose in space
Pics credit: Axiom Space He may have witnessed more than a hundred sunrises and sunsets from orbit, but for Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla , the first eight days aboard the International Space Station (ISS) have been a whirlwind of scientific discovery. While six of the seven Isro-led experiments are underway, tardigrades or 'water bears' that travelled all the way from Bengaluru to the orbital lab some 400 km from Earth, have served their purpose in space. Shux, who kicked off his scientific experiments with Myogenesis — to investigate the biological pathways behind skeletal muscle degradation in microgravity inside the Life Sciences Glovebox, marked his first week in orbit by completing the study on tardigrades or 'water bears'. 'Shukla has successfully completed the microgravity experiment involving Tardigrades onboard the ISS,' Isro confirmed. The next step would be for the principal investigators to analyse the data obtained from experiments conducted by Shux. The study focused on tardigrades' survival, revival, and reproductive behaviour in space. It will provide valuable insights into the underlying biological mechanisms leading to resilience of extremophile organisms in microgravity environments and has potential applications on Earth especially in the area of therapeutics,' Isro confirmed. Bengaluru 'Water Bears' The water bears at ISS were studied in the Voyager Tardigrades experiment designed by researchers from the Indian Institute of Science (IISc). Biochemist Sandeep Eswarappa and team at IISc, who spent over five years studying tardigrades, resilient microscopic organisms that have survived five mass extinctions, discovered a Paramacrobiotus species with an astonishing defence: When exposed to lethal ultraviolet radiation, this species absorbs the harmful rays and emits harmless blue fluorescence instead. That was the first direct experimental evidence of photoprotective fluorescence in any organism. And, it is this 'Bengaluru strain' of the tardigrade that has flown to the ISS with Shux. Other experiments Shux's first eight days in orbit as part of the Axiom-4 (Ax-4) mission have been defined not just by spectacle, but also a series of intricate biological investigations that could transform both future space missions and life on Earth. The Myogenesis study, on the other hand, is progressing with planned interventions and recording of observations as per the experiment protocol. In parallel, other Indian experiments for studying selected strains of microalgae and cyanobacteria under space conditions are ongoing, contributing to research on regenerative life support systems and crew nutrition. 'As part of the Electronic Displays human research study, Shux carried out daily software-based cognitive and interface assessments. The study aims to optimise crew interaction with digital systems in the unique environment of space,' Isro added. A day before the well-deserved 'rest day' upon completing half his stay at the ISS, he had begun documenting the progress of the Cyanobacteria Growth Experiment, another Isro-led study analysing how photosynthetic bacteria behave in space. These tiny organisms could one day form the backbone of life support systems on long-duration missions, recycling carbon dioxide into oxygen and aiding water regeneration. Shux also helped deploy and manage samples for the Space Microalgae investigation — another study with enormous potential. Microalgae, already valued on Earth for their rapid growth and nutritional content, are being cultivated in orbit to observe how microgravity influences their metabolism, genetic activity, and biomass yield. These hardy organisms may serve as future spacefarers' food, fuel, or even pharmaceutical source.
New Indian Express
04-07-2025
- Science
- New Indian Express
Shux completes Tardigrade experiment, three other experiments ongoing
BENGALURU: Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, onboard the International Space Station (ISS), has his hands full. As part of his 14-day-long stay and expedition to the ISS under the Axiom-4 manned space mission, he has completed the Tardigrade Experiment. Sharing the details on Friday, ISRO said Shux, who is also one of the four chosen astronauts for the Gaganyaan mission, has completed the microgravity experiment involving Tardigrades onboard ISS. "The study focused on their survival, revival and reproductive behaviour in space. This study will provide valuable insights into the underlying biological mechanisms leading to resilience of extremophile organisms in a microgravity environment and has potential applications on Earth, especially in the area of therapeutics," the ISRO team in its release said.
India.com
12-06-2025
- Science
- India.com
What are ‘water bears', tiny animals accompanying astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla to space? They can survive extreme temperatures, radiation and…, are found in…
Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla is taking tardigrades or water bears abord the ISS. (File) Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla was poised to become the second Indian to step aboard the International Space Station (ISS). But the historic Axiom-4 mission, which was scheduled to carry Shukla and three others to space, was delayed once again on Tuesday (June 10) to fix a leak in the SpaceX's Falcon-9 rocket. According to reports, Shubhanshu Shukla will have some unique passengers alongside him when the Axiom-4 mission gets a new launch date from SpaceX, tiny microscopic animals known as Tardigrades or 'water bears', which will be experimented upon aboard the ISS. The experiments are aimed at strengthening India's future space endeavors, including the ambitious Indian Space Station and the Gaganyaan mission, as per officials. What are Tardigrades and why were they chosen for this mission? Tardigrades, aka water bears or moss piglets, are a species of eight-legged segmented micro-animals that are known for the ability to survive in the harshest of environments, including high temperatures, and the extreme radiation and vacuum of outer space. First described by German zoologist Johann August Ephraim Goeze in 1773, who called these creatures 'Kleiner Wasserbär' or 'little water bear', tardigrades are known to have existed on Earth for nearly 600 million years, and have survived all five major mass extinction events the have occurred in the planet's history so far. According to scientists, the experiments are aimed to understand how tardigrades survive in the harsh environment of space, so strategies can be developed to keep astronauts safe during long-duration space missions. An adult tardigrade usually measures about 0.5 mm in length, and has four pairs of legs, with with 4 to 6 claw-like appendages on each leg. These creatures have a unique mouth-like appendage that helps the feed on plant cells, algae and other small invertebrates, by sucking out their nutrients. Where are tardigrades found? Tardigrades are extremophiles, which means they are able to survive in every possible biosphere found on Earth, including mountaintops, the deep sea, tropical rainforests, and even the Antarctic region. As per scientists, tardigrades are among the most resilient animals known to man, able to survive extreme conditions such as extreme temperatures of as low as -272.95 degrees Celsius and as high as 150 degrees Celsius. These hardy creatures can also withstand extreme ultraviolet radiation of outer space, and pressure of up to 40,000 kilopascals (equivalent to the pressure experienced at a depth of 4 km below the sea surface). Scientists believe that a better understanding of the tardigrade physiology could have wide-ranging applications for the betterment of humankind, including developing more resilient crops, powerful sunscreens, and the preservation of human tissue and organs for transplant. Tardigrades also produce intrinsically disordered proteins in response to desiccation, which forms a glass-like matrix that protects cytoplasm from damage during desiccation, as per scientists.
