As fireworks prepare to dazzle Earth’s night skies, a different kind of celebration is taking place 400 kilometres above us. On the International Space Station, the Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4) crew is marking their mission's halfway point not with music and sparklers, but with research that may help shape our future on Earth and beyond.
Commander Peggy Whitson, Pilot Shubhanshu “Shux” Shukla, and Mission Specialists Sławosz “Suave” Uznański-Wiśniewski and Tibor Kapu resumed experiments after a brief off-duty pause. Their science-driven mission reflects a shared goal: advancing knowledge for all of humanity.
Cancer, Muscles, and Microgreens in Microgravity
Commander Whitson completed two more tumour organoid imaging sessions. These 3D cancer models are helping scientists see how cancer behaves in microgravity. Her work is part of the Cancer in LEO study, which may lead to better cancer treatments in space and on Earth.
Whitson also captured images for the Saudi Space Agency’s student-designed Microgravity Challenge. The student experiments explore plant growth in orbit and bring science closer to classrooms.
Shux handled tasks for the myogenesis study, which looks at how muscles weaken in space. The research investigates molecular pathways behind muscle loss and could help those with limited mobility on Earth.
Shux also deployed samples for the Space Micro Algae study. These algae may support future missions by producing oxygen and food. But scientists first need to learn how they grow in orbit.
The crew helped with the Voyager Displays project, which tracks eye movement, pointing accuracy, and gaze in space. The aim is to design smart interfaces that help astronauts navigate spacecraft efficiently under stress.
Tibor worked on the Fruit Fly DNA Repair study. It observes how radiation impacts DNA and how enzymes might offer protection. Fruit flies could reveal new genetic protection strategies for both space and Earth.
Tibor also wrapped up the VITAPRIC experiment by testing radish and wheat microgreens. These crops could feed astronauts on long missions and inspire urban farming solutions on Earth.
They continued using the Rad Nano Dosimeter to monitor radiation levels aboard the ISS. These readings are crucial as astronauts travel farther into space in coming years.
Exploring Brain, Bone, and Body Responses in Space
Inside the Life Sciences Glovebox, Shux and the crew supported the Mxene in the LEO study. It tests nanomaterials for use in wearable health sensors. These lightweight devices may soon monitor astronauts' health in real time.
A virtual reality headset helped astronauts take part in the Neuromotion VR study. The headset, paired with brain sensors and hormone tracking, helps researchers understand cognitive shifts in orbit. It could improve readiness for deep space travel.
Voice in Space, another unique study, is testing if microgravity changes how astronauts speak. Scientists are using AI to study vocal shifts under cognitive stress.
The Acquired Equivalence Test looked at how the brain adapts to visual tasks in zero gravity. The study examines how astronauts form associations and solve puzzles in unusual orientations.
The Bone on ISS study gathered data on bone breakdown in space. By using digital twins, scientists may one day predict how each astronaut’s bones will respond to long missions—and help treat bone loss on Earth.
Finally, the team used neuromuscular electrical stimulation to examine how to protect muscle health in space. Their findings may lead to better therapies for conditions like osteoporosis.
Connecting Science with Students Around the World
Tibor spoke with Hungarian media about his space journey. As Hungary’s second astronaut, he shared stories from orbit and encouraged interest in science at home.
Tomorrow, Whitson will speak with students in South Korea as part of the Humans in Space Youth Programme. The event celebrates art and research created by students, with Whitson showing the winning drawings from orbit.
The entire Ax-4 crew will also join Axiom Space Chief Scientist Dr. Lucie Low for a live Q&A. The session will highlight the science conducted so far and the progress made during their mission.
From growing microgreens to tracking brainwaves, every experiment aboard Ax-4 helps bring space and science closer to people back home. Their mission is more than research—it’s a reminder of what humans can achieve together, even while floating far above the Earth.
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