IIT Madras researchers on a mission to develop technologies for space exploration

ExTeM, or Extraterrestrial Manufacturing, a centre at the Indian Institute of Technology, Madras (IIT Madras), found mention in the Prime Minister’s Maan Ki Baat recently. The PM said the researchers were working on technologies that could be developed and used in outer space. 

ExTeM, or Extraterrestrial Manufacturing, a centre at the Indian Institute of Technology, Madras (IIT Madras), found mention in the Prime Minister’s Maan Ki Baat recently. The PM said the researchers were working on technologies that could be developed and used in outer space. 

To elaborate, ExTem researchers, who come from various disciplines, are working to develop technologies for future human settlement on the Moon and Mars. Their experiments include tackling challenges of construction infrastructure, 3D printing tools, and extracting materials crucial for sustainable space exploration. 

Established under the Institute of Eminence scheme, ExTeM aims to advance India’s space 2.0 initiatives and broaden access to space for diverse industries, including resource extraction, infrastructure development, and pharmaceutical research. 

Microgravity drop tower 

The researchers are investigating the distinctive benefits of microgravity environments, which allow for production of superior materials, such as crystal-free optical fibres with advanced properties and higher-quality diamonds, all with potential applications on Earth. Researchers are also studying the behaviour of beneficial microbes in microgravity. 

The ExTeM team includes professors and research students from civil engineering, metallurgy, biotechnology, mechanical engineering, and physics working on various areas, including developing construction materials, conducting parabolic flights, creating waterless concrete using Martian soil, strategies to enhance microbial growth, growing better crystals in space using microgravity, welding, and converting lunar soil into metals and ceramics.