Ax-4 mission: ISRO, Axiom Space coordinate on crucial experiments before launch

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Relevance : GS 3(Science and Technology)

ISRO is actively coordinating with Axiom Space to:
- Refresh and prepare time-sensitive experimental samples.
- Ensure proper experimental setup in microgravity conditions.
Close collaboration with Indian Principal Investigators (PIs) from national R&D labs and academic institutions.

Proposed by Indian scientists for ISS research:

Microalgae in Space:
1. Study of microgravity and radiation impact on edible microalgae growth.

Sprouting Salad Seeds:
- Germination and viability of salad seeds in zero gravity.
Tardigrades Study:
- Observing survival, revival, reproduction, and gene expression of tardigrades (microscopic extremophiles).
Muscle Regeneration:
- Effects of metabolic supplements on muscle repair under microgravity.
Human–Machine Interaction:
- Studying human interaction with electronic displays in microgravity environments.
Cyanobacteria Proteomics:
- Growth and protein response comparison of cyanobacteria fed on urea vs. nitrate.
Food Crop Seeds:
- Effects of microgravity on growth and yield parameters of key crop seeds.

ISRO and NASA will jointly conduct five additional experiments:
- Primarily focused on human physiology and biomedical research.
- Part of NASA’s human research programme aboard the ISS.

First time Indian researchers will conduct indigenous experiments aboard the ISS.
Strengthens India’s profile in:
- Human spaceflight readiness
- Space biosciences
- International scientific collaboration
Aligns with ISRO’s goals for Gaganyaan and future space station participation.