Thu Apr 24 21:28:00 UTC 2025: **Indian Air Force Pilot to Participate in Groundbreaking Diabetes Research on ISS**
NEW DELHI, April 25, 2025 – Indian Air Force pilot Shubhanshu Shukla will make history this May as the first Indian to fly to the International Space Station (ISS) aboard the Axiom 4 mission. His participation is part of a groundbreaking research project exploring the feasibility of insulin-dependent diabetics undertaking short-duration space travel.
The study, a collaboration between Axiom Space and Burjeel Holdings PLC, will focus on accurate blood glucose testing, data transmission, and insulin viability in the microgravity environment of the ISS. Successful results could significantly expand the eligibility of astronauts and broaden access to space for individuals with diabetes.
Beyond space exploration, the research holds significant potential for advancing healthcare on Earth. The technologies developed for remote monitoring and treatment in the microgravity environment could revolutionize care for patients in remote locations, such as oil rig workers at sea or individuals in extreme environments. The technology could even improve home healthcare.
The Axiom 4 mission will also conduct other experiments studying the effects of microgravity on biological processes, offering unique insights into diseases like Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and cancer. These studies build on previous space research that has already yielded valuable data on protein crystallization and cellular aging.
Burjeel Holdings’ Founder and Chairman, Shamsheer Vayalil, highlighted the importance of this collaboration, emphasizing the potential for advancements in both astronaut health and patient care on Earth.
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