The Ax-4 mission, set to launch on May 29, aims to demonstrate that astronauts with insulin-dependent diabetes can be supported over short-duration stays in microgravity.
Ax-4 features several areas of research and science-related activities planned for the International Space Station (ISS). Researchers hope to advance microgravity research in low-Earth orbit. As part of that, they plan to demonstrate accurate blood glucose testing, data transmission and insulin viability on ISS.
The specifics of technologies and methods planned for the mission remain undisclosed, but it could mark another step forward for the diabetes tech market that features the latest in automated insulin delivery, continuous glucose monitoring and more.
According to the researchers, Ax-4 can help enable those with diabetes to participate in future space missions. This would expand the eligibility of crew and expand access to space to more people.
This marks the latest expansion of medical technologies to outer space. For instance, Virtual Incision, a surgical robot maker, sent its MIRA system to the ISS last year.
Ax-4 is also noteworthy in that it marks a return to human spaceflight for India Poland and Hungary. The mission features each nation’s first government-sponsored flight in more than 40 years and second mission in history. It also marks the first time all three nations execute a mission on board the ISS.
