Highlights

• Chandrayaan-3, India’s ambitious lunar mission, scheduled to soft-land on Moon’s South Pole on August 23, 2023.
• Building on the experiences of Chandrayaan-2, Chandrayaan-3 features advanced technology with Orbiter, Lander, and Rover.
• The mission aims to explore uncharted regions of the Moon, including scientific research on its mineral composition and water presence.
• ISRO provides a live viewing of the historic landing, highlighting India’s resilience and growth in space science.

Chandrayaan-3, the latest lunar exploration project by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), was launched on July 14, 2023.

This ambitious project builds upon the experiences and lessons learned from previous missions, including the Chandrayaan-2, which aimed to place a lander and rover on the lunar surface but faced an obstacle during the landing phase.

Although deemed unsuccessful in achieving all its objectives, Chandrayaan-2 laid the groundwork for ISRO in understanding key dynamics and technologies needed for its third attempt at lunar exploration.

At the forefront of innovation, Chandrayaan-3 will be utilising upgraded technology and a clear, determined vision to explore the uncharted South Pole of the Moon.

With Russia’s recent unsuccessful attempt to land a rover in the same location, India now stands on the brink of becoming the first country to achieve this remarkable feat.

This mission, a key stepping stone in India’s space journey, is likely to symbolise not only the nation’s technological prowess but also its resilience and unwavering commitment to advancing the field of space science.

Chandrayaan-3: When and Where to Watch Soft Landing Live

The landing of Chandrayaan-3’s lander on the Moon is anticipated to occur at approximately 6:04 pm on August 23, 2023.
ISRO has also revealed that a communication link has been established between the orbiter of Chandrayaan-2 and the lander module of Chandrayaan-3.

This new connection streamlines the control of the lander, enhancing the mission’s coordination and efficiency. Live viewing of the event will be accessible from 5:20 pm onwards on ISRO’s official YouTube channel or its official website.

However, ISRO has also announced that if any circumstances related to the lander module are found to be unfavourable, the Chandrayaan-3 landing will be postponed to August 27.

Chandrayaan-3: Objectives and Components

The goals of Chandrayaan-3’s mission are as follows:

• To demonstrate safe and soft landing on the Moon’s surface.
• To showcase roving lunar rover technology.
• To carry out in-situ scientific research.
• To explore the Moon’s undiscovered South Pole.

Chandrayaan-3: Technological Innovations and Challenges

Chandrayaan-3 utilises cutting-edge technology and equipment to ensure its safety and success. The mission consists of an Orbiter, Lander, and Rover, each with specific functions and objectives.

• The Orbiter is tasked with circling the Moon and providing vital communication between the Lander and Earth.
• The Lander, equipped with advanced safety measures, is designed to execute a soft landing on the lunar surface
• The Rover will roam the Moon’s previously unexplored South Pole. 

Together, these components aim to investigate the Moon’s mineral composition, topography, and potential water presence, furthering our understanding of the celestial body and contributing to global lunar research.

Some of the challenges include:

• Identifying and avoiding hazards through Hazard Detection & Avoidance for Landers.
• Employing a Landing Leg Mechanism for the Camera and Processing Algorithm.

Chandrayaan-3’s Journey: A Timeline

• Launched on July 14, 2023, Chandrayaan-3 underwent successful Trans Lunar Insertion (TLI) to head towards the Moon.
• The spacecraft completed its fifth and final orbit-raising maneuver on July 25, 2023, followed by the Translunar Injection on August 1, 2023.
• On August 14, 2023, the spacecraft lowered its orbit towards the Moon, a crucial step towards its final destination.

Chandrayaan-3: Scientific Contributions and Potential Impact

Chandrayaan-3 is set to offer sharp images through its Orbiter camera and improve our knowledge of the Moon’s evolution, minerals, and water molecules in the Polar regions. The mission’s scientific research has the potential to be instrumental for the global scientific community.

Currently, Chandrayaan-3 has successfully lowered its orbit and is steadily approaching the Moon’s surface.

The ISRO is meticulously executing the process with expectations to achieve the goal soon. The anticipation surrounding the mission’s success continues to build, with each phase closely monitored.

A Symbol of National Pride

Chandrayaan-3 moon mission is more than a technological feat; it is a symbol of national pride. As the mission gets closer to achieving its goals, it showcases India’s advancements in space technology and exploration.

Whether Chandrayaan-3 succeeds in its final objectives or not, the mission has already made significant strides, beating challenges and marking a proud moment for every Indian.

FAQs

Ques) What are the primary objectives of Chandrayaan-3’s mission?

Ans) Chandrayaan-3 aims to demonstrate a safe and soft lunar landing, showcase advanced rover technology, carry out in-situ scientific research, and explore the undiscovered South Pole of the Moon.

Ques) When and where can the soft landing of Chandrayaan-3 be watched live?

Ans) The landing is expected at approximately 6:04 pm on August 23, 2023. Live viewing will be accessible from 5:20 pm onwards on DD’s YouTube channel.

Ques) How does Chandrayaan-3 build upon the lessons from Chandrayaan-2?

Ans) While Chandrayaan-2 faced challenges during landing, it provided vital insights into lunar dynamics and technologies. Chandrayaan-3 leverages these lessons to enhance its mission, with upgraded technology and improved strategies.

Ques) What are the technological innovations in Chandrayaan-3, and what challenges does the mission face?

Ans) Chandrayaan-3 employs cutting-edge technology, including specific mechanisms for hazard detection, avoidance for landers, and advanced camera systems. Challenges include the complexity of soft landing, potential hazards on the lunar surface, and the need for precise coordination between different mission components.

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