Voyager Tardigrades Experiment

April 21, 2025

India, Poland, and Hungary are set to embark on human spaceflight mission next month. This marks the first government-sponsored flight for these nations in over 40 years. The Axiom Mission 4 will feature a four-person crew, including an American astronaut. They will conduct various scientific studies while stationed at the International Space Station (ISS) for two weeks. Among the notable experiments is the Voyager Tardigrades project, led by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).

About Tardigrades

Tardigrades, or “water bears,” are microscopic eight-legged creatures. They measure between 0.1 mm and 0.5 mm in length. These resilient animals can thrive in extreme conditions. They have survived the vacuum of space, intense radiation, and extreme temperatures. Tardigrades have existed for approximately 600 million years. Their ability to endure harsh environments makes them invaluable for scientific research.

The Voyager Tardigrades Experiment

The Voyager Tardigrades experiment is one of seven studies by ISRO at the ISS. It aims to explore the revival of dormant tardigrades in microgravity. The experiment will also investigate reproduction by observing eggs laid and hatched in space. Additionally, it will compare gene expression between tardigrades grown in space and those on Earth.

Significance of Tardigrades in Space Research

Tardigrades are considered biological goldmines for space research. Their unique survival mechanisms allow them to repair DNA damage and enter a state of suspended animation. This resilience provides vital information about long-duration space travel and potential astronaut protection systems.

Impact on India’s Space Programme

The findings from the Voyager Tardigrades experiment could influence India’s future space missions. gained may enhance the Gaganyaan human spaceflight mission. India’s collaboration with Axiom and SpaceX demonstrates a commitment to advanced research and international partnerships. Tardigrades are paving the way for future explorations into the unknown.

Biological Resilience of Tardigrades

Tardigrades can survive extreme environments by entering a hibernation-like state. During drought, they pull in their legs and curl into a ball, becoming “tuns.” This state allows them to endure prolonged periods without water or food. Upon returning to favourable conditions, they can reactivate their biological processes.

Previous Space Missions

In 2007, a European Space Agency mission exposed tardigrades to the vacuum of space for ten days. Remarkably, over two-thirds survived and even reproduced upon return. This experiment showcased their extraordinary resilience and potential for future space research.

Other Experiments Under Axiom Mission 4

Human Interaction with Screens in Space

Goal: Study how astronauts use electronic screens in zero gravity.
Partners: ISRO, NASA, Voyager.
Focus Areas: Eye movement, pointing tasks, and stress levels in space.
Importance: Helps design better computer systems for astronauts in future missions.

Space Microalgae

Partners: ISRO, NASA, Redwire.
Focus: Growth, metabolism, and gene activity of edible microalgae in space.
Why it matters: Microalgae are rich in protein and nutrients – could be a sustainable food source for astronauts.

Cyanobacteria Research

Partners: ISRO & ESA (European Space Agency).
Study: Two types of cyanobacteria (photosynthetic bacteria).
Purpose: Understand their growth and behavior in microgravity.
Future use: Could be used in life support systems on spacecraft.

Effect of Metabolic Supplement on Muscle Regeneration

Partners: ISRO, NASA, BioServe.
Focus: Study muscle weakening and find treatments.
Relevance: Prevents muscle loss in astronauts and helps treat muscle-related diseases on Earth.

Sprouting Salad Seeds in Space

Partners: ISRO, NASA, BioServe.
Study: How seeds grow and evolve in space across generations.
Importance: Ensures astronauts have a reliable food source in long missions.

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