Chennai: The Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) is advancing India's space ambitions through its ExTeM (Extraterrestrial Manufacturing) Research Group, which aims to support long-term human presence in space and create commercial opportunities.

This pioneering effort was lauded by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his recent "Mann Ki Baat" address.

ExTeM focuses on "Making in Space for Space" and "Making in Space for Earth," leveraging microgravity for breakthroughs in manufacturing.

The group operates a world-class Microgravity Drop Tower installed in 2017, enabling experiments in artificial zero-gravity conditions.

Key innovations include waterless concrete for Martian infrastructure, advanced optical fibers, and bioprinting for medical implants, addressing challenges like resource limitations and microgravity influences.

The group also explores in-situ resource utilization (ISRU), utilizing lunar and Martian materials to reduce Earth dependency.

ExTeM operates under IIT Madras' Institute of Eminence (IoE) scheme and drives Space 2.0 initiatives for industries like pharmaceuticals, resource extraction, and infrastructure development.

The research team comprises experts across aerospace, civil engineering, biotechnology, and materials science.

Highlights include pioneering welding methods for space, optical fabrication, and studying biological systems' behavior in microgravity. Researchers are also developing processes to create advanced materials like defect-free semiconductor crystals and high-quality diamonds.

Prof. V. Kamakoti, Director, IIT Madras, emphasized the significance of these developments for human settlement on the Moon and Mars.

ExTeM's work not only advances India's space exploration but also contributes to cutting-edge innovations for Earth-based applications.