Chandrayaan-3 successfully lands on the Moon, India earns global recognition
| India becomes the first country to land a probe on the South Pole of the Moon |
(Credit : ISRO)
Bengaluru (Karnataka) – India’s esteemed space research organisation, ISRO, has achieved a monumental triumph with its ambitious mission, “Chandrayaan-3,” as its “Vikram Lander” successfully touched down on the lunar surface. This extraordinary feat has not only brought immense joy to India but has also resonated with people worldwide. In a historic achievement, India has secured the distinction of being the pioneer in landing a probe on the Moon’s enigmatic South Pole, a feat previously unattained by nations such as the United States, Russia, and China. Notably, Russia’s earlier attempt with “Luna-25” had encountered failure on 20th August.
(Credit : Video From Space)
(Credit : ISRO Official)
The “Pragyan Rover” poised for Lunar Exploration
- Launched on 14th July, Chandrayaan-3 embarked on its celestial journey towards the Moon. Following several days of Earth orbit, it set its course towards the Moon on 1st August.
- On the evening of 23rd August, at approximately 5:44, the spacecraft seamlessly transitioned into lunar orbit, initiating its descent.
- Significantly, the “Vikram Lander,” a pivotal module of Chandrayaan-3, disengaged a few days before and commenced its descent toward the lunar surface. During this phase, it executed two de-boost manoeuvres to ensure a safe landing.
- Before its final descent, the “Vikram Lander” maintained an orbit about 25 kilometers above the lunar terrain, transmitting several images of the Moon’s surface back to ISRO.
- Based on images provided by the “Vikram Lander,” ISRO determined a secure landing site on 23rd August.
Commencing at 5:44 p.m., the “Vikram Lander” initiated its descent and successfully touched down on the lunar landscape at 6:04 p.m. This intricate manoeuvre was orchestrated through computer-driven instructions utilising Artificial Intelligence (AI). Notably, ISRO scientists relinquished direct control during this phase. The “Vikram Lander” adjusted its velocity at this juncture.
- Post-landing, the “Pragyan Rover” will be released from the “Vikram Lander” once the lunar dust settles. This operation is anticipated to take between 2 to 8 hours.
(Credit : Hindustan Times)
(Credit : ISRO Official)
Thorough Lunar Examination in the following fortnight
Subsequent to the release of the “Pragyan Rover” from the “Vikram Lander,” Chandrayaan-3 is set to conduct an exhaustive exploration of the lunar surface, with a particular focus on the South Pole. Over the ensuing 14 days, a comprehensive analysis of soil composition, rock characteristics, and other elemental attributes will transpire. Essential queries concerning the presence of lunar water and mineral diversity will be addressed during this phase. After the passage of 14 days, when the Sun sets over the Moon’s South Pole, the operational activities of both “Vikram” and “Pragyan” will temporarily cease. Their functionality, sustained by solar energy, will be interrupted due to the profound darkness that ensues after sunset.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s virtual presence from South Africa
PM Modi eagerly awaiting the landing of Chandrayaan-3 (Credit : NDTV)
ISRO Chairman Somanath, former Chairman Sivan, and an assembly of distinguished scientists congregated in ISRO’s control room in Bengaluru to oversee this historic endeavour. Additionally, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who was concurrently participating in a BRICS summit in South Africa, virtually connected with ISRO’s control room to witness the ongoing proceedings.