ISRO and SCTIMST Forge Partnership in Space Medicine
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Synopsis
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology (SCTIMST) have established a significant collaboration to advance research and innovation in space medicine, paving the way for new developments in human health during space missions.
Key Takeaways
- ISRO and SCTIMST have signed a MoU for cooperation in space medicine.
- The Gaganyaan mission is central to human spaceflight initiatives.
- This collaboration will improve astronaut health and performance.
- Research will lead to new technologies and enhancements in healthcare.
- Joint projects include the development of biomedical devices.
Thiruvananthapuram, April 25 (NationPress) The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), along with the Department of Space (DoS) and Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology (SCTIMST), which operates under the Department of Science and Technology (DST), has formalized a Framework Memorandum of Understanding aimed at fostering cooperation in Space Medicine.
This collaboration signifies a pivotal advancement in the realm of space medicine and its various applications within India.
ISRO's ambitious human spaceflight initiative, Gaganyaan, represents a national mission that presents exceptional avenues for synergy with educational institutions, national organizations, and industries in disciplines such as human health research, microgravity investigations, space biology, and space medicine.
The signed MoU is anticipated to stimulate collaboration in this specialized field, encouraging innovations in vital areas including human physiological and behavioral research, biomedical support systems, radiation biology, health maintenance countermeasures for space missions, telemedicine protocols, and the creation of medical kits for astronauts.
This initiative is expected to pave the way for groundbreaking research and experimentation in space medicine, with potential implications that extend beyond space missions to improve healthcare on Earth.
Dr. V. Narayanan, Chairman of ISRO and Secretary of DoS, highlighted that the Gaganyaan mission is designed to enhance national capabilities in human research under the unique conditions of space. He stressed the necessity of preserving astronaut health and efficiency in the challenging environment of outer space for the success of extended missions.
He also mentioned that a national facility like the Bharatiya Antariksh Station would further support advanced human research and technology development in alignment with India's strategic priorities.
Dr. Kris Gopalakrishnan expressed optimism that this initiative would encourage robust collaboration between academia and industry in developing innovative medical devices.
Dr. Sunil Kumar, Additional Secretary and Head of the AI Division at DST, stated that advancements in space medicine research would enhance the understanding of human physiology and adaptation, leading to the creation of new medical technologies and diagnostic methods.
Dr. Sanjay Behari, Director of SCTIMST, expressed gratitude to the leadership at ISRO and conveyed enthusiasm for a fruitful partnership. He mentioned intentions to establish clean rooms and microgravity laboratories, collaborate on the creation of biomedical devices, and adapt space-grade technologies for healthcare on Earth.
SCTIMST is a leading medical research institution and an Institute of National Importance under DST, specializing in advanced medical research and healthcare services, particularly in the areas of cardiac health and neuroscience.
