Getty ImagesScientists say simulating psychological factors to see how they would impact humans in space is one of the most important parts of the mission.With space agencies from across the world aiming to send astronauts to the Moon and set up permanent bases there in the coming years, simulation missions are expected to play a crucial role in research and training.In April, a team of scientists and engineers began trials in Oregon to prepare Nasa's robot dog - Lassie - to walk on the Moon's surface. In July, four volunteers emerged after spending a year at an "analog" facility, specially built in Texas to simulate life on Mars. And according to the Economist magazine, Nasa hopes to 3D-print a base using only materials found on the Moon's surface, while China and Russia are collaborating on their own plans.⁠India doesn't want to be left behind. Prof Sharma says once the data gathered in Ladakh is analysed, it "will help us develop medical technology to deal with the needs of our astronauts when they face a problem in space"."We need to know how our bodies will function on the Moon where days and nights are a lot longer than on Earth. Or in space where there's not enough oxygen" he says.Follow BBC News India on Instagram, YouTube, Twitter and Facebook. ...