Scientists from the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), working at the Space Applications Centre, have identified Mons Mouton in the Moon’s south polar region as a potential landing site for India’s first lunar sample return mission, Chandrayaan-4.
The selection highlights India’s growing focus on advanced lunar exploration and scientific research in resource-rich regions of the Moon.
Why in News?
- ISRO scientists have shortlisted Mons Mouton as a landing zone for Chandrayaan-4.
- The site lies in the Moon’s south polar region, known for water-ice deposits.
- The mission aims to return lunar samples to Earth.
- It marks a major step in India’s deep-space capabilities.
About Mons Mouton
Mons Mouton is a prominent lunar mountain located in the South Circumpolar Region (SCR) of the Moon.
Key Features of Mons Mouton
- Height: About 6,000 metres
- Location: Near the lunar South Pole
- Terrain: Largely flat summit suitable for landing
- Geological Setting: Situated on the rim of the South Pole–Aitken Basin (largest and oldest impact basin on the Moon)
- Sunlight Exposure: Receives prolonged solar illumination
How this name come into existence?
Mons Mouton is named after Melba Roy Mouton, a mathematician and computer programmer who worked with National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), in recognition of her contributions to space science.
Scientific and Strategic Importance of the Region
1. Presence of Water Ice
- The region lies close to permanently shadowed craters.
- These craters are believed to contain water-ice deposits.
- Water ice is crucial for:
- Future human missions
- Production of oxygen and hydrogen
- In-situ resource utilisation (ISRU)
2. Geological Significance
- Samples from this area can reveal:
- Early lunar history
- Impact processes
- Crust and mantle composition
- The South Pole–Aitken Basin provides insights into the Moon’s deep interior.
3. Communication Advantage
- The Mons Mouton region maintains relatively stable radio communication with Earth.
- This reduces the risk of signal loss during landing, operations, and sample transfer.
4. Solar Energy Availability
- Extended sunlight periods support:
- Power generation
- Thermal stability
- Longer mission duration
Relevance for Chandrayaan-4 Mission
Chandrayaan-4 is planned as India’s first lunar sample return mission.
Role of Mons Mouton
- Provides a stable and safe landing platform
- Enables access to scientifically valuable material
- Supports sustained surface operations
- Improves mission reliability through better communication and power availability
The site selection reflects ISRO’s emphasis on precision landing and advanced mission planning.
India’s Expanding Lunar Exploration Strategy
The choice of Mons Mouton aligns with India’s long-term space goals:
- Strengthening deep-space navigation capabilities
- Developing sample return technology
- Enhancing planetary science research
- Preparing for future crewed lunar missions
- Supporting global lunar exploration efforts
It builds on the experience gained from earlier Chandrayaan missions.
Challenges in South Polar Missions
Despite its advantages, the south polar region presents challenges:
- Extremely low temperatures in shadowed areas
- Rugged and uneven terrain
- Complex lighting conditions
- Navigation and hazard avoidance difficulties
Selecting Mons Mouton helps minimise these risks due to its relatively favourable topography.
Conclusion
The identification of Mons Mouton as a landing site for Chandrayaan-4 marks a major milestone in India’s lunar exploration programme. Its unique combination of flat terrain, scientific value, sunlight availability, and communication stability makes it an ideal candidate for a sample return mission. The move reflects ISRO’s growing technical maturity and its ambition to play a leading role in future lunar science and exploration.
Summary
Mons Mouton, a high-altitude mountain near the Moon’s South Pole, has been identified as a suitable landing zone for Chandrayaan-4. Its relatively flat summit, prolonged sunlight exposure, and proximity to shadowed craters make it ideal for sample collection and long-duration operations. The site offers significant scientific value for understanding lunar geology and future resource utilisation.
📌 Exam-Oriented Facts
- Landing Site: Mons Mouton
- Location: Lunar South Pole (South Circumpolar Region)
- Height: ~6,000 m
- Associated Mission: Chandrayaan-4
- Key Feature: Near permanently shadowed craters with water ice
- Named After: Melba Roy Mouton
- Importance: Sample return, resource studies, communication stability
FAQs
Mons Mouton is a mountain about 6,000 metres high located near the Moon’s South Pole in the South Circumpolar Region. It has a relatively flat summit, making it suitable for lunar landings.
Mons Mouton offers stable terrain, prolonged sunlight, good communication with Earth, and proximity to water-ice-rich craters, making it ideal for India’s lunar sample return mission.
Chandrayaan-4 is ISRO’s planned lunar sample return mission aimed at collecting Moon surface material and bringing it back to Earth for detailed scientific study.
The south polar region contains permanently shadowed craters with water ice, provides long-duration sunlight, and offers insights into the Moon’s early geological history, making it crucial for future lunar missions.
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