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🇮🇳 Indian Astronaut Returns to Space After 41 Years: Shubhanshu Shukla Aboard Axiom-4 Mission to ISS

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In a landmark moment for India's space ambitions, Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla has blasted off to the International Space Station (ISS) as part of the Axiom-4 mission , marking the country's return to human spaceflight after a 41-year hiatus . This historic launch from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida has not only reignited national pride but also officially kickstarted India’s human spaceflight programme . The mission, operated by Axiom Space , includes a four-member international crew that will spend 14 days in orbit , conducting scientific research, outreach programs, and various commercial activities. This momentous occasion places India among a select group of nations capable of sending humans into space and reflects the growing prowess of the Indian space sector . A New Chapter: Shubhanshu Shukla and India’s Astronautical Comeback The last Indian to go to space was Rakesh Sharma in 1984, aboard the Soviet spacecraft Soyuz T-11. Now, in 2025, Shubhanshu...

IIT Madras Develops Waterless Concrete for Mars Habitats

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IIT Madras Develops Water-less Concrete for Mars Habitats




IIT Madras researchers have developed an innovative water-less concrete that could revolutionize extraterrestrial construction, specifically for building habitats on Mars. This breakthrough is crucial as water is extremely scarce on Mars, making traditional concrete production impractical.

Key Highlights of the Breakthrough

1. Why Waterless Concrete for Mars?

  • Water is an essential component in conventional concrete. However, Mars has almost no liquid water, making construction a major challenge.
  • This new concrete eliminates the need for water, making it ideal for extraterrestrial environments.
  • The technology aligns with the "In-Situ Resource Utilization (ISRU)" approach, meaning materials available on Mars can be used to make the concrete.

2. What is Waterless Concrete Made Of?

  • Martian Soil Simulants: Researchers tested the mix using Earth-based materials that mimic Mars' soil (regolith).
  • Geopolymer Binders: Instead of cement, the concrete uses chemical binders that create strong molecular bonds without requiring water.
  • Sulfur-Based Binding: Some versions rely on sulfur-based binding agents, which are easily available on Mars.

3. Properties and Benefits of Water-less Concrete

  • High Strength: The material provides excellent durability, ensuring structures can withstand Mars' harsh environment.
  • Radiation Protection: The composition shields astronauts from harmful cosmic radiation, making it ideal for Mars habitats.
  • Extreme Temperature Resistance: Mars has extreme temperatures ranging from -125°C to 20°C, but this concrete remains stable.
  • Low Maintenance & Longevity: Requires minimal repairs and is resistant to the corrosive Martian dust storms.

4. Applications of Waterless Concrete

  • Habitat Construction: Used for building astronaut shelters on Mars.
  • Infrastructure Development: Can help create roads, launch pads, and research facilities.
  • Lunar and Extreme Earth Use: The same technology can be applied for Moon bases and desert or polar regions on Earth.

Significance of the Breakthrough

  • Brings humanity closer to permanent Mars colonization.
  • Reduces the need to transport construction materials from Earth, lowering mission costs.
  • Paves the way for future self-sufficient Martian settlements.

This pioneering research by IIT Madras marks a significant step toward building sustainable habitats in space, enabling a future where humans can live and work on Mars. 

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