Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla conducted a series of experiments — muscle loss under microgravity, digestion in space, and astronauts’ mental well-being — on board the International Space Station (ISS). Shukla, who is a part of the Axiom-4 space mission as part of a joint ISRO-NASA initiative, stepped into the ISS on June 26 with three other astronauts.
Axiom Space, in a statement, said, “Shux (Shukla’s call sign) performed operations in the Life Sciences Glovebox (LSG) for the myogenesis study, which could uncover how microgravity contributes to muscle loss.”
“These insights may also translate to improved treatments for muscle-wasting conditions on Earth, including those linked to ageing and immobility,” they added.
A video was also filmed by the Shukla targeted at young Indian students discussing how the digestive system adapts to space.
The crew on-board documented activities for the Astronaut Mental Health study, contributing to research on understanding well-being in space. “This project can benefit others on Earth by developing remote technologies for diagnosing and treating mental disorders, particularly for individuals in isolated or challenging environments where access to mental health care is limited,” Axiom Space said.
The crew also participated in an experiment designed to advance brain-computer interface technology using a specialised headset that indirectly monitors neural activity by tracking blood flow. This is a part of the PhotonGrav project, which aims to decode brain signals, paving the way for humans to control computer systems using only their thoughts.
“For future space missions, this kind of interface could streamline how astronauts interact with spacecraft systems, especially in high-stress or hands-free scenarios. Back on Earth, the same technology could advance neurorehabilitation and assistive devices, offering new hope for people with mobility or communication challenges,” Axiom Space said.
