On May 16, 2025, India announced its first space-based biological experiments aboard the ISS via the AXIOM-4 mission. Led by ISRO and DBT under the BioE3 Policy, the experiments will test microalgae and cyanobacteria behavior in microgravity. The aim is to explore long-term human sustainability and food security in space.

BulletsIn

• India to send biological payloads to ISS under AXIOM-4 mission
• First such mission involving Indian biotechnology in space
• Experiments to study microalgae, cyanobacteria growth in microgravity
• Microalgae evaluated as edible, nutrient-rich food for astronauts
• Cyanobacteria like Spirulina studied for proteomic response, growth
• Spirulina considered a superfood due to high protein, vitamin content
• Part of BioE3 Policy promoting biotech for sustainable development
• Joint effort by ISRO and DBT, Ministry of Science & Technology
• Supports future missions like Gaganyaan, boosts space life-science
• Advances India’s self-reliance in space biotech, food solutions