
An Indian startup is planning to script history by launching a 'space habitat' by 2027 in collaboration with Elon Musk's SpaceX.
As the name suggests, these ‘expandable space habitats’ will serve as living quarters for space tourists, astronauts and researchers.
The Bengaluru-based company AkashaLabdhi, which was incubated atIIT Roorkee, has been designing these proposed space habitats.
The company calls itself a ‘home among the stars’ on LinkedIn and says that its area of expertise is cutting at signal processing, seamless automation and robust power electronics.
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They wrote on LinkedIn, “AkashaLabdhi is as engineering firm providing solutions for modern engineering challenges. We specialize in delivering comprehensive solutions encompassing both Software and Hardware domains. Our proficiency extends to signal processing, PCB design, power electronics, and automation, positioning us as a versatile engineering firm.”
The space habitat will become a home for anyone visiting the space and will accommodatesix to 16 people.
According to a report published by The Times Of India, AkashaLabdhi has at present made a prototype model of the habitat, which is known as ‘Antariksh HAB’.
The Antariksh HAB boasts features like an expandable shell which ensures ‘exceptional orbital debris and radiation protection’. The design can also serve multiple purposes apart from being a space habitat.
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The scientists can use Antariksh HAB for microgravity experiments, satellite maintenance, orbital logistics storage, said the company on its website.
“With a forward-looking perspective, this adaptable habitat holds potential for long-term lunar surface exploration," it added.
Speaking to the newspaper, the company's CEO Siddarth Jena said that the space habitat will need nearly seven days to fully inflate after reaching its destination.
According to the report, the company has been discussing the project with billionaire Elon Musk’s SpaceX with the aim of booking a slot for the mission.
(With inputs from agencies)