Indian Astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla to Connect with Students, ISRO Scientists from Space Station

Indian Astronaut to Connect with Students and ISRO Scientists from Space

Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla, currently on board the International Space Station (ISS) as part of the Axiom-4 (Ax-4) mission, is scheduled to interact with students and scientists at ISRO on Friday, July 4. The interaction will be facilitated via ham radio, marking a unique opportunity for students to engage with an astronaut in real-time.

The Ax-4 mission, a 14-day commercial spaceflight organized by Axiom Space, includes four astronauts involved in groundbreaking scientific research that could revolutionize long-duration human spaceflight.

The event is part of the ARISS (Amateur Radio on the International Space Station) program, an international initiative designed to connect students globally with astronauts in orbit, fostering interest in STEM education. The telebridge at the U R Rao Satellite Centre in Bengaluru will serve as the venue for the interaction.

Live Interaction Details

The interaction, facilitated by the Amateur Radio on the International Space Station (ARISS), will occur at the U R Rao Satellite Centre (URSC) in Bengaluru through a telebridge station. Communication will be relayed via the K6DUE ground station. According to PTI reports, the session is scheduled for 3:47 PM IST (10:17 UTC) on Friday.

Ham Radio: A Lifeline in Space

Ham radio, also known as amateur radio, is a licensed communication system operating on radio frequencies designated for non-commercial use. Popular among enthusiasts, it serves as a crucial communication tool during emergencies when standard lines fail.

In space missions, ham radio offers a reliable and direct communication line between astronauts and students or amateur operators on Earth. This personal interaction enhances science education, allowing students to connect with a real astronaut in space.

Shubhanshu Shukla's Experiments on the ISS

While aboard the ISS, Shubhanshu Shukla is involved in several experiments:

Microalgae

Researchers are exploring microalgae for their potential as a sustainable, nutrient-rich food source for astronauts. These organisms also play a vital role in oxygen recycling and waste management. Shukla has planted sample bags of microalgae and is capturing high-resolution images of their growth. Studying the effects of microgravity on algae growth could lead to the development of closed-loop life-support systems, essential for missions to the Moon, Mars, and beyond.

Neuro Motion VR Project

This project employs virtual reality headsets to assess cognitive performance in microgravity. Astronauts wear headsets and engage in attention-based tasks while their brain activity is monitored using functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS). This data helps scientists understand how space travel impacts mental acuity, motor function, and memory – crucial insights for future deep space exploration where astronauts must perform critical tasks under stress in confined environments.

The Telemetric Health AI

This research focuses on combining biometric data with AI-based mission analytics to track the impact of space on cardiovascular health and balance systems. By utilizing real-time data analysis and predictive models, this project aims to transform in-flight medical monitoring and potentially enable remote diagnostic devices for use in rural or emergency areas on Earth, highlighting the potential of space research to drive medical innovation.