Indian astronaut Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, who has been tasked with the Axiom-4 (Ax-4) mission, has just finished a crucial part of his space training, which involved altitude exercises. These simulations, meant to mimic the low-pressure environment of space, are necessary to prepare astronauts to work in extreme conditions and perform under pressure. The training involves exposure to sudden pressure variations, low oxygen environments, and emergency simulation training, preparing astronauts for unforeseen situations. Shukla’s training also aids India’s Gaganyaan mission, representing a major milestone in private as well as national space exploration activities.Indian astronaut Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla is set to embark on a mission to the International Space Station (ISS), with the launch scheduled for May 29, 2025, from NASA’s Kennedy Space Centre in Florida.
Shubhanshu Shukla leads Ax-4 mission crew in advanced altitude training
Ax-4 mission crew performed a series of altitude simulations, and these simulations were conducted in a highly advanced atmospheric chamber. The chamber is specifically designed to replicate low-pressure conditions of space, and the astronauts are exposed to conditions drastically different from Earth’s atmosphere. Through this training not only can the astronauts get acclimatized to such hostile environments, but they become also more effective performers in conditions of high stress.One of the major goals of the altitude training was to mimic the low-pressure and oxygen-poor conditions of space. During the simulation of these conditions, the astronauts were exposed to brief pressure changes and reduced oxygen. These tasks are relevant to the comprehension of risk involved in space travel, for instance, hypoxia—the state of lack of oxygen that makes mental as well as physical processes non-operational. This data enables astronauts to predict and counteract such possible issues while in flight.Apart from the theory of high-altitude physiology, the astronauts were also given practical, ground-based emergency response training. The training is essential in sharpening their decision-making to allow them to respond quickly and effectively under pressure-cooker situations. The integration of simulated exercises and emergency procedures equips astronauts with the capability to manage any unforeseen issues that will plague them as they journey through space.
How does expert feedback ensure astronauts are mission-ready
During all of the altitude training sessions, medical professionals and training experts watched carefully over the performance of the astronauts. Their responsibility was to provide immediate feedback, providing individualized modifications to each astronaut’s training if necessary. Through this constant evaluation, every astronaut is well prepared to handle the particular demands of their next mission.The high-altitude training provided an opportunity for astronauts to get well acclimatized with their body responses in conditions of stress. Already conditioned on the simulated level to low-pressure conditions, the astronauts are able to recognise any vulnerable points and come up with effective counter-masses against stress. First-hand experience, besides carrying a greater confidence level, carries also an enhanced competency level for encountering the space flight conditions.
Shubhanshu Shukla prepares for Gaganyaan with groundbreaking Ax-4 training
Axiom Space’s fourth commercial spaceflight, Ax-4, is a giant step towards commercial spaceflight. As increasingly more space missions are being carried out by private entities, increasingly more crucial has it become to incorporate astronaut training into it. The grueling training procedure that Shukla and his fellow co-crew members are undergoing is paving the way for astronaut readiness in upcoming space missions.Skills and experience that Shubhanshu Shukla gains through this rigorous altitude training will also go a long way towards India’s domestic space exploration missions. Shukla’s training is central to the success of India’s Gaganyaan mission, India’s first human spaceflight mission. This is a major achievement for India’s expanding space activities and demonstrates the promise of international cooperation and exchange of skills towards achievements in space research.Also Read | NASA reveals Earth’s ‘twin’ planet is more active than we thought
