DFRL Prepares Indian Cuisine for Axiom-4 Space Mission

Mysuru-based Defence Food Research Laboratory (DFRL), in collaboration with DRDO and ISRO, has developed Indian meals for astronauts aboard Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4), launching from NASA's Kennedy Space Center. Among the crew is Shubhanshu Shukla, set to become the second Indian in space after Rakesh Sharma.

DFRL curated dishes like moong dal halwa, carrot halwa, and rice varieties using advanced preservation methods to ensure safety and long shelf life in space. Due to space dietary norms, foods are mild, oil-free, and easy to digest.

This isn’t DFRL’s first contribution—Rakesh Sharma also consumed DFRL-made meals in 1984. Ahead of the mission, Shukla tasted over 50 dishes to finalize the space menu. The initiative reflects a blend of science, tradition, and national pride, bringing a touch of India to outer space.

22-06-2025