Indian astronaut, Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, conducted a groundbreaking experiment on the International Space Station (ISS). He cultivated fenugreek and mung bean seeds in Petri dishes and preserved their images in the ISS freezer. This experiment aims to understand how microgravity affects seed germination and early plant growth.
Mission: Indian Astronaut in Space
Shubhanshu Shukla has been on the ISS for 12 days as part of the Axiom-4 mission. He and his fellow astronauts are expected to return to Earth any day after July 10, 2025, awaiting suitable weather conditions on the Florida coast. NASA has yet to confirm the mission's undocking date. This mission could extend up to 14 days on the ISS.
Shubhanshu expressed to Axiom Space's Chief Scientist, Lucy Lo, his pride in the collaborative research developed by ISRO with institutes across India that he is experimenting with on the space station. The experience, he noted, is both exhilarating and joyful.
Source: aajtak
Fenugreek and Mung Bean Experiment
This seed germination study is led by two scientists—Ravikumar Hosamani of the University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad, and Sudhir Siddhapureddey of IIT Dharwad. Shubhanshu successfully cultivated fenugreek and mung beans in Petri dishes and photographed them. Upon return, these seeds will be grown for numerous generations on Earth to study changes in genetics, microbiome, and nutritional value.
The purpose of this experiment is to assess how useful plants grown in space can be as food during prolonged space missions. It marks a significant step toward sustainable agriculture for future lunar or Mars missions.
Microalgae Experiment
In another experiment, Shubhanshu deployed and stored microalgae (microscopic algae). These algae can potentially produce food, oxygen, and even biofuel in space. This research will assist in developing life-support systems for future astronauts.
What Lies Ahead?
Upon returning to Earth, Indian scientists will study the seeds brought back by Shubhanshu. This research will advance the understanding of space farming, food security, and the creation of life-support systems for long-duration space missions. Through ISRO's cooperation, India is achieving new heights in space research.
