NEW DELHI: The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is shifting its focus toward exploring the potential of microgravity in medical research to better equip astronauts and advance healthcare innovations. Speaking at the Raksha Summit 2024, ISRO Chairman S. Somanath highlighted India’s growing interest in space-based medical research, stressing the significant opportunities microgravity offers in fields like medicine, technology, and biotechnology.
Microgravity, a condition in which gravity is almost nonexistent, can have profound effects on the human body. Studies conducted in space show that astronauts experience muscle and bone weakening due to the lack of gravity, and issues like fluid redistribution, which can increase pressure on the eyes and lead to vision problems. ISRO’s collaboration with the Department of Biotechnology aims to better understand these effects to ensure astronauts’ health and safety during long-term missions, including the upcoming Gaganyaan human spaceflight mission.
The benefits of microgravity extend beyond space exploration. Somanath emphasized the potential for microgravity research to improve healthcare and medical equipment manufacturing in India. With much of the medical technology still imported, he proposed local production of critical health devices, much like ISRO’s successful efforts in building rockets and satellites. This would reduce costs and encourage innovation within India’s healthcare sector.
ISRO has already made strides in microgravity research. In 2007, India contributed to NASA’s space shuttle mission by conducting its first dedicated microgravity experiment. With increasing global interest in the field, ISRO is also exploring zero-gravity flights as a cost-effective way for researchers to conduct small-scale experiments.
By investing in microgravity research, India is positioning itself to lead the way in both space exploration and medical advancements, offering new possibilities for long-term space missions and future healthcare technologies.