12 March 2024 – The Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT-Madras) has entered into a collaboration with space startup Vellon Space to launch ‘AsteriX Lab’ by 2025. The miniature space laboratory aims to conduct revolutionary long-duration cell culture experiments in microgravity, paving the way for advancements in extra-terrestrial manufacturing research.
IIT-Madras Founding and Purpose:
Founded in 1959, IIT-M is at the forefront of technological innovation. In collaboration with Vellon Space, a space startup, IIT-M is venturing into space exploration with the launch of ‘AsteriX Lab.’ This groundbreaking project focuses on conducting biological experiments in microgravity, pushing the boundaries of space technology and opening new commercial opportunities.
The collaboration between IIT-M’s Extra-Terrestrial Manufacturing (ExTeM-IITM) center and Vellon Space marks a significant milestone in orbital microgravity research. The AsteriX Lab will undergo an in-orbit demonstration, showcasing its capability to conduct experiments like long-duration cell culture in low-earth microgravity. The project aims to advance extra-terrestrial manufacturing research, particularly in the realm of biomanufacturing in space.
The AsteriX Lab’s in-orbit demonstration is a crucial step toward revolutionizing cell culture and drug development processes in space. The lab, designed to stay in orbit for nearly a week, will be remotely controlled and equipped with sensors and data measurement systems for experiments. The collaboration holds the promise of understanding microgravity’s effects on biological systems, innovating drug development processes, and creating commercial opportunities in the space technology sector.
Conclusion:
The IIT-M and Vellon Space collaboration signifies a bold step in advancing space exploration and technology. The AsteriX Lab project not only demonstrates India’s capabilities in space research but also sets the stage for future endeavors in in-space manufacturing. As the lab prepares for its orbital journey, the scientific community eagerly anticipates the groundbreaking insights and advancements that may emerge from this pioneering initiative.
