Chandrayaan-3 has been launched by LVM3 from SDSC SHAR, Sriharikota. Chandrayaan-3 is third mission to the Moon. The mission is a follow-up of Chandrayaan-2 mission, which failed a desired soft landing on the lunar surface nearly four years ago in September 2019.
India’s space program has consistently pushed boundaries and achieved remarkable milestones, cementing the nation’s position as a key player in the global space arena. In continuation of this legacy, the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) has launched the Chandrayaan-3,
In this article, we will provide informed insights about Chandrayaan-3, its objectives, and its significance. This information will be particularly beneficial for UPSC CSE (Civil Services Examination) and other competitive examinations’ aspirants seeking a comprehensive understanding of India’s space endeavors.
Chandrayaan-3: Important Milestones and Progress
Here is a table highlighting the key milestones and progress related to Chandrayaan-3:
| Date | Milestone |
|---|---|
| 2008 | Launch of Chandrayaan-1 |
| 2019 | Launch of Chandrayaan-2 |
| 14 July 2023 | Launch of Chandrayaan-3 |
Chandrayaan-3: Objectives and Key Highlights
Chandrayaan-3 aims to build upon the success of its predecessors, Chandrayaan-1 and Chandrayaan-2, by furthering our knowledge of the Moon’s surface and its composition. The main objectives of the mission are – exhibiting end-to-end capability in safe landing and roving on the lunar surface. The spacecraft is expected to touchdown Moon’s south pole region on August 23. The spacecraft consists of a six-wheeled lander and rover module, configured with payloads to provide data related to the Moon’s surface.
However, the rover on the lunar surface will be doing more than just gathering data. The rear wheels of the rover, named Pragyan, will leave imprints of the ISRO and the national emblem, depicting the Lion Capital of Ashoka at Sarnath, on the lunar surface – symbolising its presence and leaving India’s mark behind.
The mission’s key objectives include:
- Lunar Surface Exploration: Chandrayaan-3 will carry advanced instruments and equipment to study the lunar surface, providing valuable data about its geological features, mineral composition, and potential resources.
- Sample Collection: The mission aims to collect lunar soil samples and analyze them for a better understanding of the Moon’s formation and evolution.
- Technology Demonstration: Chandrayaan-3 will showcase India’s technological capabilities by deploying innovative instruments and systems for navigation, communication, and in-situ scientific experimentation.
Chandrayaan-3 Payloads
Lander payloads: Chandra’s Surface Thermophysical Experiment (ChaSTE) to measure the thermal conductivity and temperature; Instrument for Lunar Seismic Activity (ILSA) for measuring the seismicity around the landing site; Langmuir Probe (LP) to estimate the plasma density and its variations. A passive Laser Retroreflector Array from NASA is accommodated for lunar laser ranging studies.
| Sl. No | Lander Payloads | Objectives | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. | Radio Anatomy of Moon Bound Hypersensitive ionosphere and Atmosphere (RAMBHA) | Langmuir probe (LP) | To measure the near surface plasma (ions and electrons) density and its changes with time |
| 2. | Chandra’s Surface Thermo physical Experiment (ChaSTE) | To carry out the measurements of thermal properties of lunar surface near polar region. | |
| 3. | Instrument for Lunar Seismic Activity (ILSA) | To measure seismicity around the landing site and delineating the structure of the lunar crust and mantle. | |
| 4. | LASER Retroreflector Array (LRA) | It is a passive experiment to understand the dynamics of Moon system. | |
Rover payloads:Â Alpha Particle X-ray Spectrometer (APXS) and Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscope (LIBS) for deriving the elemental composition in the vicinity of landing site.
| Sl. No | Rover Payloads | Objectives |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | LASER Induced Breakdown Spectroscope (LIBS) | Qualitative and quantitative elemental analysis & To derive the chemical Composition and infer mineralogical composition to further our understanding of Lunar-surface. |
| 2. | Alpha Particle X-ray Spectrometer (APXS) | To determine the elemental composition (Mg, Al, Si, K, Ca,Ti, Fe) of Lunar soil and rocks around the lunar landing site. |
Significance for UPSC CSE Aspirants
Chandrayaan-3 holds immense significance for UPSC CSE aspirants as it represents India’s pursuit of scientific excellence and its contributions to the global space community. Understanding the objectives and progress of Chandrayaan-3 can provide valuable insights for aspirants, especially in the following areas:
- Science and Technology: Chandrayaan-3 highlights the significance of space technology in scientific research and exploration. Aspirants can gain insights into cutting-edge technologies, instrumentation, and data analysis methods used in space missions.
- International Relations: India’s space program plays a crucial role in enhancing diplomatic ties with other nations. Aspirants can study the collaborations, partnerships, and cooperation frameworks established through Chandrayaan-3 and its impact on India’s global image.
- Environment and Sustainability: Chandrayaan-3’s focus on studying lunar resources contributes to the larger discourse on sustainable development and resource utilization. Aspirants can explore the environmental implications and potential applications of lunar research.
Chandrayaan-3 represents India’s unwavering commitment to scientific exploration and technological advancements. By shedding light on the Moon’s mysteries, the mission will expand our knowledge of the cosmos and open up new avenues for future space endeavors. For UPSC CSE aspirants, understanding the objectives and progress of Chandrayaan-3 provides a broader perspective on India’s space program and its multidimensional impact. Stay informed and inspired as India continues its journey towards new frontiers of space exploration.
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