HIGHLIGHTS
As the Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4) crew enters their final week aboard the International Space Station, the astronauts remain laser-focused on completing a wide-ranging suite of scientific experiments, technology demonstrations, and global outreach initiatives. Commander Peggy Whitson, Pilot Shubhanshu “Shux” Shukla, and Mission Specialists Sławosz “Suave” Uznański-Wiśniewski and Tibor Kapu have spent the past eleven days driving forward research that could shape the future of space exploration and deliver real-world benefits back on Earth.
RESEARCH
Today, Peggy supported her Ax-4 crewmates through another day of microgravity research. Drawing on her decades of experience living and working in space, Peggy has been guiding the crew as they conduct diverse scientific investigations, ensuring the success and efficiency of the mission’s research objectives.
Shux took imagery and conducted a centrifugation of cyanobacteria. By comparing two strains of these photosynthetic microorganisms, researchers aim to understand how microgravity affects their growth, cellular behavior, and biochemical activity.
In another experiment, Shux redeployed a culture bag for the Space Microalgae study. Microalgae are being investigated for their potential to produce food, oxygen, and even biofuels. Their resilience and versatility make them ideal for supporting human life on long-duration missions.
The crew continued the Voyager Displays experiment, which examines how spaceflight alters eye movement, gaze coordination, and pointing accuracy. These insights could support designing intuitive, adaptive spacecraft interfaces that respond to the unique cognitive and motor challenges astronauts face on orbit.
In support of the PhotonGrav study, a crewmember collected neural activity data using functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS). This research explores how the brain adapts to microgravity and investigates the feasibility of human-computer interfaces in space. The results could inform the development of neuroadaptive technologies for space exploration and have applications in Earth-based medicine, such as rehabilitation and assistive devices.
Tibor completed work on the VITAPRIC experiment by irrigating radish and wheat microgreens. These nutrient-rich plants are a potential fresh food source for astronauts and could offer insights into urban and arid-environment agriculture on Earth, where territory and resources are limited.
The crew supported the ENPERCHAR study, which investigates how astronauts perceive and interact with their environment in space. By analyzing spatial orientation and environmental awareness, researchers aim to design spacecraft and habitats that better support mental health and operational efficiency during long-term missions.
Data was collected for the Cerebral Hemodynamics study, which examines how the cardiovascular system adapts to spaceflight. Understanding these changes is essential for astronaut health and could also enhance diagnostics and treatments for cardiovascular conditions on Earth.
Finally, a crewmember explored the potential of nanomaterials through the Mxene in LEO study. The results could lead to the next generation of wearable health monitoring technologies, benefiting both astronauts and patients on Earth.
OUTREACH
Today, Suave spoke with members of the Polish media about the importance of the Ax-4 mission and his role in advancing Poland’s scientific research goals.
Tomorrow at 5:00 a.m. CT/12:00 p.m. CEST, Suave will continue his outreach efforts with around 300 students in Poland. During the live event, he’ll share insights about his journey to becoming an astronaut, offer a glimpse into daily life aboard the space station, and lead a hands-on STEM demonstration designed to spark curiosity and excitement about science and space. Click here to watch.
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