Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla is commencing his journey back to Earth July 14 from the International Space Station (ISS). Shukla's presence on the ISS marks him as the first Indian to board the orbital laboratory and the nation's second astronaut in space, following Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma. His current mission is part of the Axiom Space Mission 4.
During his time in orbit, Lucknow-born Group Captain Shukla has been engaged in a series of scientific investigations. These experiments were collaboratively developed by the Indian Space Research Organization, the Department of Biotechnology, and NASA.
A prominent study, named "Sprouting Salad Seeds in Space (SPROUTS)," focused on cultivating green gram and fenugreek seeds, staples in the Indian subcontinent. The objective is to meticulously analyze their growth patterns, nutritional value, hormonal and genetic responses, and microbial content within the space environment.
NASA underscores the critical importance of such research for future space exploration. Given the high cost and impracticality of ferrying substantial food supplies on extended missions, findings from the SPROUTS study could pioneer sustainable in-space food production. This breakthrough would empower astronauts to cultivate their own food, enhancing both nutrition and overall well-being during prolonged space travel.
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