Chandrayaan-3 Safely Returns: ISRO Ensures Controlled Disposal Post Successful Mission

ISRO Confirms Controlled Disposal of Chandrayaan-3's Rocket Stage

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has reported the safe re-entry and controlled disposal of the cryogenic upper stage of the LVM3 M4 launch vehicle, a pivotal component in the triumphant launch of the Chandrayaan-3 spacecraft earlier this year.

A Secure Earth Re-entry

The re-entry of the rocket component occurred precisely as anticipated, over the North Pacific Ocean, well clear of Indian territory, in line with ISRO's predictions and adherence to safety protocols. The cryogenic upper stage re-entered Earth's atmosphere at 14:42 IST, well within the prescribed 124-day period post-launch, in accordance with international space debris guidelines.

Upholding Space Sustainability Guidelines

In alignment with the Inter-Agency Space Debris Coordination Committee (IADC) recommendations, ISRO ensured the passivation of the upper stage, eliminating residual propellant and energy sources. This proactive step conforms to United Nations guidelines for space debris mitigation and reaffirms India's commitment to preserving the long-term sustainability of outer space activities.

"Passivation and post-mission disposal of this rocket body in adherence to the internationally accepted guidelines once again reaffirms India's commitment to preserve the long-term sustainability of outer space activities," expressed ISRO in a statement.

Chandrayaan-3 Mission Highlights

Chandrayaan-3 marks India's third lunar mission, aiming for a soft landing on the moon's surface for the second time. Departing from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota on July 14, 2023, the spacecraft seamlessly entered lunar orbit by August 5, 2023. The monumental achievement came when the lander flawlessly touched down near the lunar south pole on August 23, 2023.

Key Objectives and Remarkable Discoveries

Objectives Achieved:

• Demonstration of a secure lunar landing.

• Showcase of rover mobility and lunar exploration.

• Conducting on-site scientific experiments.

Significant Lunar Discoveries:

• ChaSTE, Chandrayaan-3's temperature sensor, recorded surprising lunar surface temperatures of up to 70 degrees Celsius, challenging earlier expectations.

• The Pragyan rover's Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy confirmed the presence of Sulphur near the lunar south pole and identified elements like Aluminium, Calcium, Iron, Chromium, Titanium, Manganese, Silicon, and Oxygen.

ISRO's meticulous handling of Chandrayaan-3's controlled disposal post-mission marks a milestone in India's space exploration endeavors, while its scientific discoveries continue to expand our understanding of the lunar surface.

some relevant and latest facts for the above news:

Chandrayaan-3 Mission Overview

• Chandrayaan-3 is India's third lunar mission, launched on July 14, 2023.

• The spacecraft successfully entered lunar orbit on August 5, 2023.

• The lander achieved a flawless touchdown near the lunar south pole on August 23, 2023.

Controlled Re-entry

• The cryogenic upper stage of the LVM3 M4 launch vehicle re-entered Earth's atmosphere on November 16, 2023.

• The re-entry occurred within 124 days of its launch, adhering to the "25-year rule" for low-Earth orbit objects.

• The rocket component re-entered over the North Pacific Ocean and did not cross over India.

Adherence to Space Debris Mitigation Guidelines

• The upper stage underwent "passivation" before re-entry to eliminate any remaining propellant and energy sources.

• This procedure ensures compliance with space debris mitigation guidelines established by the United Nations and the IADC.

ISRO's Commitment to Space Sustainability

• ISRO's successful disposal of the Chandrayaan-3 rocket stage demonstrates its commitment to preserving the long-term sustainability of outer space activities.

• By adhering to internationally accepted guidelines, ISRO is contributing to the responsible use of space resources and ensuring a safe environment for future space exploration endeavors.

Additional Facts

• The cryogenic upper stage of the LVM3 M4 launch vehicle is responsible for placing the Chandrayaan-3 spacecraft into lunar orbit.

• The controlled re-entry of the rocket component is crucial to minimize the risk of space debris and ensure the safety of Earth's environment.

• ISRO's commitment to space sustainability aligns with international efforts to protect the space environment for future generations.