India’s first analogue space mission launched in Ladakh

Taking a significant step in the field of interplanetary space missions, India on Friday launched its first analogue space mission based in Leh.

The objective of the mission is to simulate life in a habitat in another planet to experience and be ready for the challenges that future astronauts may encounter in such missions. The initiative is a collaborative endeavour involving the Human Spaceflight Centre of Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), AAKA Space Studio, the University of Ladakh and IIT-Bombay. Supported by the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council, Ladakh has been chosen for the experiment for its unique geological characteristics. Its cold, arid conditions and high altitude provide an ideal environment for testing technologies and strategies required for interplanetary missions.

The mission is part of India’s ambition to enhance its capabilities in human spaceflight and interplanetary exploration. ISRO is at present working on the Gaganyaan programme, which aims to send Indian astronauts into space. The first uncrewed test flight of the mission is scheduled to be launched in December this year.

During the analogue mission, participants will engage in various activities designed to simulate life on another planet. These include habitat design evaluations, resource management studies, and psychological assessments of isolation effects on crew members. The findings are expected to inform the designs of habitats in locations other than earth when such a mission becomes reality. AAKA Space Studio will play a crucial role in designing habitats that are sustainable and conducive to human health in extra-terrestrial conditions.