India has announced its first-ever biological experiments aboard the International Space Station (ISS) to Study Sustainability of Human Life in Space.

• The initiative is part of the broader BioE3 Biotechnology Policy launched in 2024.
• This is a collaborative mission between ISRO, NASA, and the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) Ministry of Science and Technology of India. 
• It will be conducted as part of the AXIOM-4 mission, with Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla as the first Indian astronaut participating in space biology research aboard the ISS.

Key Highlights of the Experiments

1. Microalgae Experiment: Sustainable Nutrition in Space
   • Objective: To study the impact of microgravity and radiation on the growth of edible microalgae.
     • Microalgae are nutrient-rich, fast-growing organisms with high protein and oxygen generation potential—critical for long-duration space missions.
   • Expected Outcome: Identification of algal species most suitable for food, oxygen production, and CO₂ recycling in space environments.
     
2. Cyanobacteria Experiment: Waste Recycling and Superfood Potential
   • Organisms: Study metabolic adaptation and growth in microgravity of Cyanobacteria such as Spirulina and Synechococcus.
   • Mediums used: Urea-based vs. nitrate-based nutrient environments.
   • Goals:
     • Explore Spirulina’s potential as a “superfood” due to its high protein and vitamin content.
     • Examine cyanobacteria’s role in recycling carbon and nitrogen from human waste to support self-sustaining extraterrestrial habitats.
       

Significance

1. Pioneering Space Biotechnology for Sustainability

India’s first biological experiments in space represent a strategic leap toward sustainable human life in outer space. 

These experiments support:

• Life support systems through oxygen generation and food production.
• Closed-loop recycling of nutrients and waste on spacecraft and space habitats.

2. Advancing the BioE3 Vision

The experiments are embedded within the BioE3 Policy, aimed at promoting:

• High-performance biomanufacturing.
• Innovation in sectors like smart proteins, carbon capture, precision therapeutics, and space research.

3. Strengthening International Collaborations

India’s participation in the AXIOM-4 ISS mission marks enhanced cooperation with NASA and other global research bodies, elevating its stature in space and biological sciences.

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