India’s ambitious lunar mission, Chandrayaan 3, has received a confirmed launch date of July 14. The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) announced that the mission will commence at 2:35 P.M. from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota. The announcement was made by Secretary of Space department and ISRO Chairman S. Somnath during a press briefing at the G-20 Fourth Economy Leaders Meeting in Bengluru.
Chandrayaan 3 aims to build upon the success of its predecessor, Chandrayaan-2, by showcasing the complete capability of safe landing and roving on the lunar surface. The mission will deploy the Launch Vehicle Mark-III (LVM3) to launch the Chandrayaan-3 spacecraft. With scientific payloads on board, including a Lander and a Rover, the mission will conduct in-situ experiments and pave the way for future interplanetary missions.
One of the key objectives of Chandrayaan-3 is to achieve a soft and safe landing on the lunar surface. Additionally, the mission aims to demonstrate the Rover’s ability to traverse and explore the moon’s terrain. Furthermore, the mission will conduct various scientific experiments to gain valuable insights into the lunar environment.
To ensure the success of the mission, Chandrayaan-3 incorporates several advanced technologies in its Lander module. These include altimeters, velocimeters, inertial measurement systems, propulsion systems, and navigation, guidance, and control mechanisms. The mission will also utilize hazard detection and avoidance systems, as well as a landing leg mechanism.
The anticipated landing window for Chandrayaan-3 is between August 23 and 24 at the moon’s South Pole. This region, which receives sunlight, is crucial for the functioning of the spacecraft’s solar panels. If the initial dates are missed, the landing will be rescheduled to September, aligning with the period of sunlight on the moon, which lasts for approximately 14-15 days.
Missions like Chandrayaan-3 hold immense significance as they foster international collaboration and scientific exchange. The exploration of the moon’s south polar region opens opportunities for future cooperation among nations. This region is believed to hold valuable resources such as hydrogen, water, ice, and possibly ancient material, providing insights into the origins of our Solar System. Moreover, the mystery surrounding the formation of the largest lunar crater, located in the south polar region, adds to the scientific curiosity driving these endeavors.
While some may question the investment in high-tech endeavors rather than focusing solely on immediate public needs, it is important to recognize that these advancements have far-reaching applications. Space technologies play a crucial role in areas such as weather prediction, resource assessment, communication, and defense. Developing countries like India understand the importance of striking a balance between futuristic technologies and immediate societal requirements, as both contribute to the overall development and well-being of their citizens.
Prominent scientists, including R. Chidambaram, a former Principal Scientific Advisor to the Government of India, have highlighted the strategic significance of active participation in emerging technologies. Such involvement positions a nation as a leader in the field, granting it leverage in international negotiations. Ultimately, the pursuit of scientific and technological advancements enhances a country’s scientific base, improves the lives of its citizens, and elevates its global standing.