Exploring Mars and the Moon: Establishing a Station in India

Scientists consider the Ladakh desert an ideal location to create the first research station that mimics conditions on Mars and the Moon, as its cold, desert, rocky environment and high altitude are perfect for simulating extraterrestrial conditions. The Times of India reports that, according to scientists, a station can be established there to test future work for astronauts and equipment on the Moon and Mars, train personnel, and conduct important research and scientific studies. The establishment of the station is expected to enhance India's space program. Additionally, the station will allow for sample comparisons with those sent by India's polar stations. Alok Kumar, a representative of the space program, stated, "As India sees itself as a major player in the field of space, the analog research station in Ladakh will play a crucial role in achieving its ambitions beyond Earth, providing an important resource for scientific research, technology development, and astronaut training in the future." It is noted that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi had previously called for the country's space research administration to establish India’s first manned space station by 2035 and to land its astronauts on the Moon by 2040. Modi also urged the country's scientists to develop programs for launching an orbital station to Venus and a landing unit to Mars.