, India’s premier space agency, has launched its unique ‘analog’ space mission in Leh){kind=link}
The Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO), India’s premier space agency, has launched its unique ‘analog’ space mission in Leh, located in the Union Territory of Ladakh. This mission marks a significant milestone in India’s space exploration efforts. It simulates the conditions of living in an interplanetary habitat to prepare for future missions to the Moon, Mars, and beyond.
On October 15, 2024, ISRO announced the commencement of this mission on X (formerly Twitter), “India’s first analog space mission kicks off in Leh! A collaborative effort by Human Spaceflight Centre, ISRO, AAKA Space Studio, University of Ladakh, IIT Bombay, and supported by Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council, this mission will simulate life in an interplanetary habitat to tackle the challenges of a base station beyond Earth”.
Purpose of Analog Missions
Analog space missions are simulations conducted on Earth to mimic the conditions and challenges of space missions. These missions are crucial for preparing astronauts and testing equipment for future space exploration. They are typically conducted in environments that resemble extraterrestrial conditions, such as deserts, underwater habitats, and polar regions. The main objectives include testing new technologies, such as habitats, rovers, and life support systems, in extreme environments resembling space conditions. Space agencies usually choose places in the polar regions or desserts to simulate the extreme extraterrestrial conditions.
These missions also study the psychological and physiological effects of isolation, confinement, and other stress triggers on astronauts. They practice mission operations, including extravehicular activities (EVAs) and emergency procedures.
Why Leh, Ladakh?
Leh, Ladakh, was chosen for this mission due to its unique environmental features closely resembling Martian and lunar conditions. Situated over 3,000 meters above sea level, Leh offers lower oxygen levels and atmospheric pressure, similar to that on extraterrestrial surfaces. The dry, rocky landscape of Ladakh closely resembles the Lunar or Martian surface, providing a realistic setting for testing rovers and other equipment. The region experiences significant temperature fluctuations, with very cold winters and relatively warm summers, mimicking the harsh extraterrestrial climate.
ISRO Mission Setup
The month-long mission, which kicked off in mid-October, is a collaborative effort involving the Human Spaceflight Centre, ISRO, AAKA Space Studio, University of Ladakh, IIT Bombay, and the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council. The mission includes a compact, inflatable habitat named Hab-1, which is equipped with essentials like a hydroponics farm, kitchen, and sanitation facilities. This habitat provides a self-sustaining environment, offering valuable data as India plans long-duration space missions.
Testing and Research
The team from AAKA Space Studio is testing environment suits and conducting geological studies in Leh. These studies are crucial for understanding the terrain and preparing for future missions to the Moon and Mars. The mission also focuses on testing life support systems, studying human factors, and conducting geological studies under conditions similar to those on Mars.
India recently experienced a significant achievement in space exploration by successfully landing the Chandrayaan-3 mission near the lunar south pole in 2023. The Vikram Lander, named after Dr. Vikram Sarabhai, the father of the Indian space program, safely touched down on the lunar surface and deployed the Pragyaan rover on September 23. This day is celebrated nationwide as National Space Day. India became the first country to land on the lunar south pole, a region of significant scientific interest due to the presence of water ice.
This analog mission is a significant step towards advancing India’s capabilities in space exploration as it gears up for crewed spaceflights shortly with the Gaganyaan mission. The data and experience gained from this mission will be invaluable as India plans to set up lunar habitats. By simulating the conditions of living in an interplanetary habitat, ISRO is preparing for the challenges of establishing a base station beyond Earth.
Manbilas Singh is a talented writer and journalist who focuses on the finer details in every story and values integrity above everything. A self-proclaimed sleuth, he strives to expose the fine print behind seemingly mundane activities and aims to uncover the truth that is hidden from the general public. In his time away from work, he is a music aficionado and a nerd who revels in video & board games, books and Formula 1.
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