HIGHLIGHTS
Day four aboard the International Space Station brought continued momentum for the Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4) crew. Commander Peggy Whitson, Pilot Shubhanshu “Shux” Shukla, and Mission Specialists Sławosz “Suave” Uznański-Wiśniewski and Tibor Kapu continued their full schedule of scientific research and outreach activities. From biomedical experiments to advanced technology demonstrations, the crew is making steady progress on mission objectives while sharing their journey with audiences around the world.
RESEARCH
Peggy continued working on the Cancer in LEO study by capturing tumor organoid images in microgravity, helping researchers understand how cancer behaves in space. In partnership with the Sanford Stem Cell Institute and Axiom Space, this work is supporting the development of Rebecsinib — a drug that has outperformed existing treatments in space-based tests. Now under FDA-approved Investigational New Drug (IND) status, Rebecsinib is moving into clinical trials, marking a major step toward new therapies for aggressive cancers on Earth.
Shux performed operations in the Life Sciences Glovebox (LSG) for the myogenesis study, which could uncover how microgravity contributes to muscle loss. By identifying the molecular pathways behind skeletal muscle dysfunction, the research could lead to targeted therapies to prevent atrophy during long-duration spaceflight. These insights may also translate to improved treatments for muscle-wasting conditions on Earth, including those linked to aging and immobility.
Tibor continued work with the Rad Nano Dosimeter, tracking radiation exposure and environmental conditions aboard the space station. These measurements are vital for protecting crew health during space missions. The data collected not only informs better shielding strategies for future exploration but also contributes to advancements in radiation monitoring and environmental sensing technologies on Earth.
An ultrasound scan was conducted as part of the Telemetric Health AI study, which merges biometric data with mission analytics to better understand how spaceflight affects cardiovascular and balance systems. Using advanced data science, the project aims to enable smarter, real-time health monitoring for astronauts with potential applications for remote health care on Earth.
The crew took part in an experiment to help develop a brain-computer interface using a specialized headset that can indirectly assess neural function through tracking blood flow. As part of the PhotonGrav project, this neural tech is aiming to monitor brain signals to explore how humans might one day control computer systems with just their thoughts. For future space missions, this kind of interface could streamline how astronauts interact with spacecraft systems, especially in high-stress or hands-free scenarios. Back on Earth, the same technology could advance neurorehabilitation and assistive devices, offering new hope for people with mobility or communication challenges.
Tibor worked on the VITAPRIC investigation, a study focused on growing nutrient-rich microgreens in space. This experiment explores how plants germinate and develop in microgravity, with a special focus on how low levels of selenium affect the production of essential nutrients like vitamins, proteins, and minerals. The goal is to unlock new ways of growing fresh, nutritious food during long-duration space missions. The findings from VITAPRIC could also revolutionize agriculture here on Earth, especially in urban areas or regions with limited resources.
Finally, the crew documented activities for the Astronaut Mental Health study, contributing to research on cognitive well-being in space. This project can benefit others on Earth by developing remote technologies for diagnosing and treating mental disorders, particularly for individuals in isolated or challenging environments where access to mental health care is limited.
OUTREACH
Today, Tibor connected with journalists from Hungary, offering a firsthand look at life aboard the International Space Station and sharing insights from his experience so far.
Tomorrow, Peggy will reunite with her Axiom Mission 2 crewmate, Mission Specialist Rayyanah Barnawi, for a conversation about Barnawi’s BioGravity initiative. They’ll be joined by student winners of the Madak competition for a special Q&A session.
Peggy will also speak with aspiring female astronauts from Mexico, Spain, Germany, and the UK to celebrate and discuss the next generation of women in space and the bold futures they’re helping to shape.
Yesterday, Axiom Space Chief Scientist Dr. Lucie Low joined Peggy and Suave for a discussion on radiation and how the mission is helping advance solutions for space exploration. Click here to watch the event.
.jpg)
.svg)