According to ISRO, India’s first analog space mission was launched in Leh, The mission, a joint effort by Human Space Flight Centre, ISRO supported by AAKA Space Studio, University of Ladakh, II Bombay and Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council, will simulate life in an interplanetary habitat to meet the challenges of an extraterrestrial base station, , Ladakh’s extreme isolation, harsh climate and unique geographical features make it an ideal location for astronauts to simulate the challenges they face on space objects, This mission will provide valuable data to support India’s Gaganyaan program and future space exploration, Ladakh’s dry climate, high altitude, and desolate terrain closely resemble the conditions of Mars and the Moon, making it ideal for analog research, One of India’s leading scientists, Dr, Alok Kumar had initially proposed the idea of using Ladakh for space research,
Analog missions are field tests in Earth’s atmosphere that mimic extreme space conditions. Analog missions help scientists and engineers understand how humans, robots, and technology might respond to space-like conditions. NASA engineers and scientists work with government agencies, academia, and industry to gather requirements for testing in harsh environments before they can be used in space. The tests include new technologies, robotic devices, vehicles, housing, communications, power generation, mobility, infrastructure and storage.
The mission also observes behavioral effects such as isolation, team dynamics, and confinement, which helps in preparation for deep space missions such as to asteroids or Mars. The test sites for this mission include diverse locations such as oceans, deserts and volcanic landscapes that mimic the challenges of space exploration.
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