ISRO has initiated a 10-day analogue mission in Ladakh’s Tso Kar Valley to simulate and study conditions for future space exploration, specifically targeting the Moon and Mars. This mission involves testing a compact, inflatable habitat designed for self-sustainability and includes activities like simulated spacewalks and biometric monitoring to assess human performance under stress. The insights gained will aid in refining life support systems and habitat designs crucial for India’s interplanetary missions, including plans for a permanent extraterrestrial base and human lunar landings by 2040. This significant step enhances India’s position in global space exploration efforts and contributes to its broader goals, such as the Gaganyaan program and the envisioned Indian Space Station.