A team from IIT Madras is making significant strides in research and technology to support human life beyond Earth. The Extraterrestrial Manufacturing (ExTeM) team is focused on solving challenges related to space colonization.
Innovative Construction Materials
To tackle Mars’ harsh environment, the team has developed a unique concrete that does not require water, a scarce resource on the planet. Instead, they use a sulphur-based compound, abundant on Mars, to create Earth-standard construction material.
Research in Microgravity
IIT Madras has built the world’s fourth-largest Microgravity Drop Tower, allowing scientists to study material properties in zero gravity. This research includes developing metal foams that can protect Mars structures from meteorite impacts.
Cutting-Edge Space Manufacturing
The ExTeM team is also working on advanced techniques for welding in zero gravity, 3D printing, and bioprinting. Their research extends to next-generation optical fibers and biomanufacturing critical organs like hearts.
Impact on Earth and Beyond
Professor Sathyan Subbiah, who leads the initiative, emphasized that their work aims to utilize space resources, reducing dependency on Earth-based supply chains. These advancements could transform both space exploration and industries on Earth.
As India moves forward in space research, IIT Madras’ ExTeM team is playing a key role in shaping the future of sustainable human life beyond our planet.
