Indian space scientists produce world's lightest synthetic material: report

Indian scientists have come up with what they claim is the world's lightest material called silica aerogel or blue air, local media reported Thursday.

A team at the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre, the state-owned premier rocket laboratory in the southern Indian city of Thiruvananthapuram, is behind the world's lightest synthetic material.

In fact, the scientists say the aerogel has uses both in space and on Earth because of its excellent thermal resistance, the reports said.

It can be used to insulate rocket engines and can also keep Indian soldiers warm at Siachen glacier, the world's highest battlefield, according to the scientists.

"It is the world's lightest synthetic material made by man. It is a highly guarded technology. We have indigenously made it in India," K. Sivan, the head of the rocket laboratory, told the media.

He added: "It has applications for thermal jacket, foot insoles, as well as for window glazing. It is extremely useful for people working in very cold environments, in a very strategic way." Endit