From Huzurnagar to Outer Space: Indian talent shines in LunAres Analog Astronaut selection

Tejal Sinha
Always having had a zeal to take up unique things that involved risks and something different from what others did, today, Mohana Sai Akula aka Amar, a Huzur Nagar resident has been selected for not the first but second time from India for LunAres Analog Astronaut Mission. A proud moment Indeed!
Ever since his childhood, Amar was always inclined towards human genetics. However, it seemed like his destiny had some different plans, with his academics narrowing down his interest in exploring space studies. Over an exclusive chat with The Pioneer, he enthuses, “My fascination with space exploration was ignited during my participation in two Mars Analog Missions in India. These missions, designed to replicate the conditions of Mars, exposed me to the intricacies of space operations and the importance of collaboration under challenging circumstances. Additionally, my role as a biologist in an International Analog astronaut-based Lunar Mission in Poland granted me invaluable insights into the significance of interdisciplinary teamwork and effective communication in a global space context. Every day the kind of expectations and needs that the global space community has drives my interest and energy.”
With a professional background spanning over four years with a Telangana-based youth development organisation named Rubaroo and a high school science and social teacher, he has strong problem-solving, conflict-management, and logistical skills. His core values encompass inclusion, joy, and diversity, and find fulfillment in challenging my conditioning and stepping out of my comfort zone.
Basically, his passion lies in Human Space Exploration and the prospect of humans becoming a multi-planetary species. Enthusiastic about contributing to this field and aspire to become the first astronaut from India with a specialised academic background in Astrobiology, this Huzur Nagar native boy is not just thrilled but honoured to be selected for the LunAres Analog Astronaut Mission once again. “It’s an incredible opportunity,” he says adding, “I feel both humbled and excited to represent India in this groundbreaking mission. Being chosen for a second time is a testament to the collaborative efforts of the entire team the invaluable experiences gained from my previous participation and collaborative efforts of my professors from the Amity Centre of Excellence in Astrobiology where I am currently pursuing my Master in Astrobiology & Space Science. Their guidance and encouragement have played a significant role in working on scientific goals and my development as an analog astronaut for the upcoming mission. It’s an exciting time, and I am ready to embrace the challenges and opportunities that come with being part of the LunAres Analog Astronaut Mission for the second time.”
For the unaware, Amar explains that ‘M2 Mission’ by LunAres Research Station and Space is the scientific and medical research project – analog space mission simulating the moon and mars based studies carried out in the LunAres Research Station, in the city of Pila, Poland. The mission is from March 13, 2024 to March 30, 2024. The mission’s main objective is to study of physiological, neurological, and psychological effects of short-term and long-term space travel by isolating the crew and putting them in a confined habitat for 20 days (including pre-flight, mission, and post-flight).
As part of his trip to Poland, by collaborating with Analog Astronaut Training Centre (AATC), Krakow, Poland, and with the Military Institute of Aviation Medicine, Poland, “I will be going for Human Centrifuge Training where I will be trained for anti-G maneuvers, unwanted effects of accelerations, G-LOC loss of consciousness or spatial disorientation simulating the Aircraft model Mig-29, F-35 ranging the Gz acceleration range from -3 G to +16 G, Gy acceleration range from -6 G to +6 G and Gx acceleration range from -10 G to +10 G.”
Sharing the news with his parents about being selected for the LunAres Analog Astronaut Mission for the second time was an incredibly special moment. “The combination of emotions we experienced the first time around, the excitement, the pride, and even a touch of understandable concern, seemed to amplify this time. I could hear the pride in their voices and see it in their eyes, and that was immensely rewarding. It’s not every day that one gets the opportunity to participate in such a unique and challenging mission, and knowing that my parents are also behind me every step of the way is truly heartwarming. Having been through this experience once before, my parents understand the significance of these analog astronaut missions and the invaluable experiences they bring. Their support is unwavering, and the fact that they continue to stand by me for a second mission is a testament to the strength of our bond.”
Amar is also the first Astrobiologist student from Telangana, and for him too, taking up the course was a unique thing in itself. “My journey into astrobiology stemmed from a combination of fascination with the mysteries of the universe and a deep-rooted passion for extra-terrestrial life. Growing up, I was always captivated by the wonders of nature, the possibilities of extraterrestrial life, and the fundamental questions about our existence. Astrobiology presented itself as the perfect intersection of my interests, offering a scientific exploration into the potential for life beyond Earth.”
He also desires to become the first astronaut with an academic background in Astrobiology. Telangana, being the youngest state and vibrant academic environment, inspired him to pursue a path less traveled, seeing an opportunity to contribute to the field of astrobiology and represent his region in a domain that combines the marvels of space with the intricacies of biology.
However, he does believe that there’s a gap in terms of accessibility and awareness, especially at the grassroots level, and more awareness of the course and the need for this course in India can help. Initiatives to introduce Astrobiology in bachelor’s curricular like as an elective course, science outreach programs, workshops, lectures (introduction of it and its careers), and community engagement can help bridge this gap.