Leh, November 1: The Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) on Friday announced the launch of the country’s first analog space mission which began in Leh, Ladakh. The mission is led by ISRO’s Human Space Flight Center which has been developed in partnership with AAKA Space Studio, University of Ladakh, IIT Bombay and supported by Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council. The mission aims to simulate life in an interplanetary habitat and explore the challenges of establishing a base station beyond Earth.
According to ISRO, India’s first analog space mission launched in Leh. In a joint effort by Human Space Flight Center, ISRO supported by AAKA Space Studio, University of Ladakh, IIT Bombay and Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council, this mission will simulate life in an interplanetary habitat to deal with the challenges of a base station beyond Earth. Ladakh’s extreme isolation, harsh climate and unique geographical features make it an ideal location to simulate the challenges faced by astronauts on these celestial bodies. This mission will contribute valuable data to support India’s Gaganyaan program and future space exploration. Ladakh’s dry climate, high altitude, barren terrain closely resembles Mars and lunar conditions, making it ideal for analog research. Dr. Alok Kumar, one of India’s leading scientists, initially proposed the idea of โโusing Ladakh for space research.
Analog missions are field tests in Earth’s environment that mimic extreme space conditions. Analog missions help scientists and engineers understand how humans, robots and technology might respond in space-like conditions. NASA engineers and scientists work with government agencies, academia and industry to gather requirements for testing in harsh environments before they are used in space. The tests involve new technologies, robotic equipment, vehicles, habitats, communications, power generation, mobility, infrastructure and storage.
These missions also observe behavioural effects such as isolation, team dynamics and confinement, which aid in preparations for deep space missions such as to asteroids or Mars. Test sites for these missions include diverse locations such as oceans, deserts and volcanic landscapes that replicate the challenges of space exploration.
