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In a groundbreaking move toward advancing research and development in extra-terrestrial manufacturing, the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) has forged a collaboration with an Indian space start-up.
This collaboration signals a significant stride in orbital ‘Microgravity Research’, with the start-up slated to receive a Technology Development Fund from IIT Madras to showcase its miniature space laboratory, named the ‘AsteriX Lab’, in orbit.
As the pilot customer for the start-up’s in-orbit demonstration mission, the IIT Madras research centre, known as ‘Extra-Terrestrial Manufacturing’ (ExTeM-IITM), is poised to play a pivotal role. The AsteriX Lab, set to undergo space qualification during its demonstration, will focus on conducting biological experiments, particularly long-duration cell culture under Lower Earth Microgravity. The space demonstration is anticipated to occur by 2025.
Professor Sathyan Subbiah, Department of Mechanical Engineering at IIT Madras and Coordinator of ExTeM-IIT Madras, underscored the project’s significance, stating, “This demonstration lays the groundwork for biomanufacturing in space, potentially revolutionising cell culture and drug development processes, leading to enhanced pharmaceuticals and improved human health outcomes.”
ExTeM-IITM, a consortium of researchers at IIT Madras, is dedicated to developing technologies for space manufacturing, both for space applications and for terrestrial use.
Professor G.K. Suraishkumar, Department of Biotechnology at IIT Madras and Co-Principal Investigator of Phase 02 of ExTeM, emphasised the satisfaction of contributing to the capability demonstration of biological experiments in space. He noted the potential for superior product development in space for use on Earth or during space flights, citing advancements in understanding microgravity’s effects on biological systems and innovations in drug development processes.
The Founder and CEO of the start-up highlighted the strategic alignment of expertise and resources in the partnership, expressing confidence that the joint effort would drive scientific advancements and open avenues for future endeavours in In-Space Manufacturing.
The IoE Research Centre on Extra Terrestrial Manufacturing (ExTeM) at IIT Madras fills a crucial gap in space-related manufacturing research. While current technologies focus on manufacturing launch vehicles and satellites, future requirements demand technologies for producing products and assemblies in space for both space and terrestrial applications.
The collaboration embodies innovation and vision, poised to unlock the full potential of space technology and propel humanity into a new era of exploration and discovery.
IIT Madras has long been at the forefront of fostering innovation and supporting entrepreneurial initiatives. With a focus on commercialising cutting-edge research and facilitating the growth of start-ups, the institution is dedicated to translating academic excellence into real-world impact.
Through incubators, accelerators and technology transfer offices, IIT Madras provides aspiring entrepreneurs with the necessary resources, mentorship, and infrastructure to transform innovative ideas into viable commercial ventures. By nurturing a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship, IIT Madras aims to drive economic growth, create job opportunities, and contribute to societal development.
OpenGov Asia covered IIT Madras’ move to bolster India’s startup ecosystem through its ‘Investor Information and Analytics Platform’. This innovative platform, crafted by researchers at the Centre for Research on Start-ups and Risk Financing (CREST), serves as a comprehensive resource hub for startups, providing seamless access to networks of Venture Capitalists (VCs), investors, government schemes, and various other facets of the startup landscape.
Minister Chandrasekhar praised the platform’s role in illuminating the diverse startup innovation ecosystem and highlighted its value for researchers and policymakers alike. With features like “StartupGPT,” an AI-driven conversational interface, the platform aims to streamline information access for users, enhancing engagement and fostering growth in emerging sectors like semiconductors, microelectronics, AI, and HPC.
