Marking a significant milestone for Indian agricultural science in space research, the Kerala Agricultural University has joined NASA’s Axiom Mission 4. The mission will carry seed varieties developed by KAU to the International Space Station (ISS) as part of a collaborative research initiative.

The project is a joint effort involving the European Space Agency, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), the Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology (IIST), and KAU’s College of Agriculture, Vellayani.

The seeds selected for the space experiment include six high-yielding locally developed crop varieties: Jyothi, Uma (rice varieties), Kanakamani (horse gram),Thilakathara (sesame), Soorya (brinjal/eggplant),Vellayani Vijay (tomato). These seeds will undergo rigorous scientific evaluation in the unique microgravity environment of space.

Primary goal

The primary goal of the study is to examine how space conditions, especially microgravity, affect the germination, growth and viability of food crop seeds. After spending time aboard the ISS, the seeds will be brought back to Earth, planted in controlled environments, and monitored closely for changes in growth, resilience, and productivity.

Indian Air Force Group Captain Shubanshu Shukla, one of the astronauts aboard the Axiom Mission 4, will play a supportive role in conducting the experiment in space. Among six Indian-led experiments selected for the mission, KAU’s microgravity-focused agricultural research stands out as a key scientific contribution.

This mission not only underscores the growing role of Indian institutions in global space research but also brings international recognition to Kerala’s agricultural innovation. The inclusion of KAU in a high-profile international mission like Axiom 4 marks a proud moment for the State and the country at large, said a press note.

Published on June 12, 2025