In cooperation, the Kiela Agricultural University (KAU) joined Axiom Mission 4 NASA and described an important milestone for Indian agricultural science in space research.
The mission transmits seed varieties developed by KAU to the International Space Station (ISS) as part of the cooperation initiative. The project is a common effort including the European Space Agency, Indian Space Research Organization (ISRA), Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology (Iist) and Kau’s College of Agriculture, Vellayani.
Seeds selected for cosmic experiment include six high -profile locally developed crops: Jyothi, UMA (rice varieties); Canachani (horse gram); Thilakathara (Sesame); Soorya (brinjal/eggplant); Vellayani Vijay (tomatoes). According to KAU sources, these seeds will undergo a strict scientific evaluation in a unique environment of space microgravity.
The primary objective of the study is to explore how space conditions, especially microgravity, affect germination, growth and viability of food crops. After spending time on the ISS, the seeds will be brought back to the ground, planted in a controlled environment and carefully monitor changes in growth, resistance and productivity.
Captain Indian Air Force Group Shaubanshu Shukla, one of the astronauts aboard Axiom Mission 4, will play a supportive role in performing an experiment in space. Among the six Indian experiments selected for this mission, agricultural research focuses on microgravity focused on microgravity as a key scientific contribution, KAU sources said.
Published – June 13, 2025 21:05
