In a bold step toward future human space exploration, ISRO has launched its first analogue space mission from a remote high-altitude facility in Ladakh, simulating the challenges of lunar and Martian missions.
From August 1, two selected participants—Rahul Mogalapalli, a Purdue University PhD researcher, and Yaman Akot, a planetary science graduate from the University of Aberdeen—will live in complete isolation for 10 days at the Himalayan Outpost for Planetary Exploration (HOPE), located at Tso Kar at 14,000 feet.
The facility, developed by Bengaluru-based Protoplanet, was formally inaugurated on Thursday by ISRO chairman V Narayanan. The mission tests the physiological and psychological impacts of confinement in extreme environments, a critical area of research for ISRO’s Gaganyaan programme and future planetary crewed missions.
Selected from 135 candidates, both crew members have prior analogue experience and underwent rigorous physical, psychological, and medical screening. They also completed 15 days of pre-mission training at lower altitudes.
Researchers will monitor genetic and psychosocial changes, tracking “omics” markers (genomics, proteomics, metabolomics), alongside psychological factors like mood shifts, sleep patterns, decision-making, and social interactions.
The terrain was chosen for its similarity to the Moon and Mars, and the initiative is supported by the Mars Society, Mars Society Australia, and industry partners like Mahindra, which provided logistics support.
The modular, dismantlable HOPE station will host future missions involving academia and private firms. ISRO also plans further analogue tests in the Himalayas to explore habitat design, life support systems, and mobility solutions.