Mission MITRA

Recently, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) launched Mission MITRA in Ladakh, with the objective of testing the mental and physical capabilities of astronauts.

It is a first-of-its-kind team behavioral study designed by ISRO and the IAF–Institute of Aerospace Medicine.

• The full form of Mission MITRA is:
  Mapping of Interoperable Traits and Response Assessment

Objective of Mission MITRA

• To examine the physiological, psychological, and operational dynamics of crew and ground teams functioning in a high-altitude environment.

Location and Conditions

The study is being conducted in the rugged, high-altitude region of Leh, Ladakh, characterized by:

• Extreme cold temperatures
• Low oxygen levels
• Isolation

These conditions make it an ideal terrestrial analogue for space-like environments.

Participation

• It involves four selected astronauts (Gaganyatris) from India’s Gaganyaan Mission.
• They are supported by a multidisciplinary team, including:
  • Scientists
  • Engineers
  • Medical experts
  • Psychologists

Focus of the Study

• Inter-operability between the crew (Gaganyatris) and ground control teams
• Decision-making ability under environmental and operational stress

Significance

• The findings of this study will play a crucial role in shaping India’s future human spaceflight missions.
• It will be particularly useful for long-duration space missions, such as extended stays in orbit or beyond.

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INS Sunayna

Recently, the Indian Navy’s offshore patrol vessel INS Sunayna reached Male as part of its deployment under the Indian Ocean Ship (IOS) SAGAR initiative.

INS Sunayna is an indigenously built Saryu-class Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV) of the Indian Navy, used for surveillance, patrolling, escort missions, and maritime security operations.

• It is the second Saryu-class offshore patrol vessel of the Indian Navy.
• It was designed and constructed indigenously by Goa Shipyard Limited.
• It was commissioned on 15 October 2013 at Kochi.
• It operates under the Southern Naval Command.

Functions

• Fleet support operations
• Coastal and offshore patrolling
• Ocean surveillance
• Monitoring of Sea Lines of Communication (SLOCs) and offshore assets
• Escort duties

Features of INS Sunayna

• It is powered by two diesel engines, enabling it to achieve speeds of over 25 knots.
• It is equipped with an automatic power management system and advanced navigation, communication, and electronic support systems.

Armament

• One 76 mm gun with an electro-optic fire control system
• Close-in Weapon Systems (CIWS)
• CHAFF launchers

Other Feature

It is capable of carrying a helicopter.

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