- Technology
- 2 min read
Indian Astronaut Shubanshu Shukla to Conduct Key Scientific Experiments in Space as Part of Intl Mission
The astronaut’s onboard research will include studying skeletal muscle dysfunction, a known issue in microgravity, and evaluating therapeutic interventions to mitigate its effects.
Speaking to media, Dr Singh underscored the significance of Shukla’s assignment, describing it as a “matter of national pride” that an Indian astronaut is taking part as an active scientific contributor in a global mission. “This is not just symbolic presence—Shukla has a clearly defined scientific role,” he said.
The astronaut’s onboard research will include studying skeletal muscle dysfunction, a known issue in microgravity, and evaluating therapeutic interventions to mitigate its effects. Another critical experiment will examine the revival and survival of Tardigrades—tiny extremophiles known for their resilience in extreme environments—which could expand understanding of life sustainability beyond Earth.
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Dr Singh highlighted that talks on sending an Indian astronaut to the International Space Station (ISS) were part of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 2023 visit to the United States. He credited the government’s progressive space policies since 2014 for enabling wider citizen access to launch facilities like Sriharikota and opening the sector to private players under the NewSpace initiative.
“These space experiments will be game-changers, helping India become truly Atmanirbhar in space science,” said Dr Singh. He added that such missions reflect India’s growing stature as a global space partner and are aligned with the nation’s ambition to expand its space economy from the current USD 8 billion to USD 44 billion by 2040, as envisioned under Viksit Bharat @2047.
Beyond space, the Minister also outlined parallel advancements in India’s deep ocean and nuclear energy missions. He spoke of efforts under the Deep Ocean Mission to unlock the untapped potential of India’s marine resources and highlighted developments such as the Bharat Small Modular Reactors to support India’s clean energy and Net Zero ambitions by 2070.
On the civil aviation front, Dr Singh pointed to the growing accessibility of air travel and rising demand for pilots. To meet this, CSIR-NAL has developed a two-seater trainer aircraft, with plans underway to scale up production of the Electric Hansa (e-Hansa) in collaboration with private partners.
“These developments signify a transformative era for India’s scientific and technological progress,” Dr Singh concluded, stressing India’s commitment to global leadership in space, clean energy, and technological innovation.
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