The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has unveiled India’s first analogue space mission, which launched in Leh, Ladakh, as a milestone in interplanetary research. Spearheaded by ISRO’s Human Spaceflight Centre, the mission is a joint effort with AAKA Space Studio, the University of Ladakh, IIT Bombay, and the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council.
The mission’s primary objective is to simulate the experience of an interplanetary habitat, examining the complexities of creating a sustainable human base beyond Earth. In a post shared on X, ISRO highlighted, "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."
Ladakh's unique topography — featuring high altitude, extreme isolation, and a dry, barren landscape — closely resembles conditions on Mars and the Moon, offering a realistic setting for analogue research. The region’s severe climate and remote geography allow scientists to investigate the physical and psychological challenges astronauts may face in long-term space missions.
The mission is expected to provide critical data to advance India's Gaganyaan program and future extraterrestrial exploration initiatives. Originally suggested by Dr Aloke Kumar, a leading scientist, Ladakh was chosen for its suitability in space research, presenting natural elements that closely mimic extraterrestrial environments.
Analogue missions, as defined by NASA, are "field tests in Earth environments that mimic extreme space conditions," facilitating the assessment of new technologies, robotic systems, habitats, power sources, and communication tools. NASA explains, “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." Testing in extreme terrestrial locations like deserts, volcanic terrains, and oceans also helps researchers observe team dynamics, confinement, and isolation — factors critical in planning long-duration missions to Mars and other distant celestial bodies.
With this mission, ISRO sets a new precedent in analog research, underscoring India’s commitment to advancing human spaceflight and interplanetary exploration.
