Current Affairs - Technology - Discussion

ISRO launched the HOPE (Himalayan Outpost for Planetary Exploration) mission in Ladakh on August 1, 2025, as part of its efforts to prepare for future human spaceflight under the Gaganyaan programme. The 10-day mission, located near Tso Kar at an altitude of 14,000 feet, simulates Moon and Mars-like conditions such as low oxygen, freezing night temperatures, and rocky terrain. This analogue environment helps researchers study the effects of isolation and extreme stress on human health and performance. The insights gained from this mission will play a crucial role in designing astronaut protocols for long-duration interplanetary missions.