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HIGHLIGHTS

On their fifth day aboard the International Space Station, the (Ax-4) crew remained immersed in their fast-paced research schedule, diving deeper into experiments that could shape the future of spaceflight and medicine. Commander Peggy Whitson, Pilot Shubhanshu “Shux” Shukla, and Mission Specialists Sławosz “Suave” Uznański-Wiśniewski and Tibor Kapu continued accomplishing research objectives—from imaging tumor organoids and monitoring cerebral blood flow to examining microorganism growth and studying fruit flies in microgravity. Alongside their scientific work, the crew remains actively engaged with global audiences through live outreach events and science, technology, education, art, and mathematics (STEAM) demonstrations, offering a window into life and discovery on orbit.

RESEARCH

Peggy spent another day focusing on the study by capturing detailed images of 3D tumor organoids grown in microgravity. These miniature tumor models help scientists investigate how cancer cells behave and grow in space—insights that could lead to breakthroughs in cancer treatment for multiple cancer types on Earth.

Crew gathered data for the project, which looks at how spaceflight affects eye movement, gaze control, and pointing accuracy. By linking these physical responses with stress and cognitive load, the study could help engineers design more intuitive spacecraft interfaces for future missions.

Shux documented the growth experiment, led by the Indian Space Research Organisation. This study compares two strains of photosynthetic bacteria to see how they grow and function in microgravity. These microbes could one day play a key role in future life support systems, helping recycle air and water on long-duration missions.

Shux also deployed and stowed samples for the investigation. In this experiment, three strains of microalgae are being grown, and the impact of microgravity on the growth, metabolism, and genetic activity will later be compared to algae grown on the ground. Microalgae are potentially useful organisms for future spaceflight that could be used as food, fuel, or even used in life support systems.

Suave conducted a technology demonstration for the project, which is evaluates a commercially available wearable acoustic monitor. The device is designed to track ambient sound levels during daily activities and will be compared to a stationary sound level meter to assess accuracy, comfort, and user experience. This study could determine whether the wearable system offers improvements over legacy sound monitoring tools and help shape the design of future spacecraft.

Tibor donned and doffed the , a compact device designed to monitor radiation exposure and environmental conditions aboard the space station. These real-time measurements are important for safeguarding astronaut health, especially as we prepare for longer missions beyond low-Earth orbit. The data will help refine shielding strategies for future spacecraft and could improve radiation detection technologies back on Earth.

Tibor completed the final seed installation for the experiment, which is testing the growth of radish and wheat microgreens in microgravity. These nutrient-dense plants could become a useful source of fresh food on long-duration missions. Beyond space, the research may support new agricultural techniques for growing healthy crops in urban environments or areas with limited resources.

Tibor also conducted the first inspection for the experiment. This study will examine how space radiation impacts DNA in both adult fruit flies and larvae. Researchers are particularly interested in later investigating whether temporarily boosting certain DNA-repair enzymes can protect against radiation-induced damage. The findings could lead to new biological countermeasures to protect human DNA during deep space missions.

The experiment was performed to assess how microgravity affects human perception and environmental awareness. By analyzing how astronauts perform tasks and interact with their surroundings, researchers hope to better understand how spaceflight alters spatial orientation and psychological connection to the environment—key insights for designing future habitats and work areas in space.

The Ax-4 crew finished the second session of the study, using ultrasound technology to monitor blood flow in the brain under microgravity conditions. This research is key to understanding how the cardiovascular system adapts to spaceflight and could lead to better diagnostic tools for heart and brain health.

STEAM ENGAGEMENTS

Tibor completed recordings for space-based educational outreach, known as the . Designed to engage learners of all ages, this program features hands-on educational experiments and personal insights into daily life aboard the orbiting laboratory, showing how space research benefits life on Earth and why exploration matters.

OUTREACH

Peggy reconnected with the first Saudi female to go to space — Mission Specialist — to discuss the Saudi Space Agency BioGravity Initiative. They were joined by the student winners of the for a Q&A session.

Peggy also had a powerful discussion with aspiring female astronauts from Mexico, Spain, Germany, and the UK. The conversation spotlighted the growing international network of women shaping the next era of space exploration through science, innovation, and leadership.

In a joint update, Peggy and Tibor shared what life has been like aboard the space station since their arrival. From sharing thoughts on being in space for the first time to personal mementos, they offered a behind-the-scenes look at their journey so far. Curious what they brought with them to space? Watch �����о���’s first mission update event .

Tomorrow at 6:15 a.m. CT/1:15 p.m. CET, Suave will connect with members of the Polish Parliament to discuss Poland’s growing role in space exploration and how these efforts are advancing science, education, and international collaboration. Tune in to watch the event live, .

Tibor will contribute to the discussion on how Ax-4 is advancing scientific interests around the globe during a live event with Dr. Orsolya Ferencz, Ministerial Commissioner for Space Research for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade of Hungary. Watch the event at 8:00 a.m. CT/3:00 p.m. CET.