Chandrayaan-3: Successful Orbit Completion and Moon-Bound Journey Initiated

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Chandrayaan-3: Successful Orbit Completion and Moon-Bound Journey Initiated
01 Aug 2023
4 min read

News Synopsis

Chandrayaan-3's Orbital Progress

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) announced a significant update on the Chandrayaan-3 mission, revealing the successful completion of the spacecraft's orbit around Earth. Following a successful perigee-firing at ISTRAC (ISRO Telemetry, Tracking, and Command Network), ISRO confirmed the spacecraft's injection into the translunar orbit. The recent trans-lunar injection (TLI) enables the spacecraft to escape Earth's orbit and commence its journey towards the Moon.

Lunar-Orbit Insertion (LOI) Ahead

ISRO revealed that the much-awaited Lunar-Orbit Insertion (LOI) is strategically planned for August 5, 2023. This crucial maneuver will position the spacecraft into a lunar orbit, furthering India's ambitious endeavor to achieve a soft landing on the Moon's surface.

Aiming for a Historic Soft Landing

Chandrayaan-3 marks India's third lunar mission, building upon the foundation laid by the 2019 Chandrayaan-2 mission. The previous attempt faced challenges as its lander and rover were unable to execute a successful soft landing on the lunar surface.

With Chandrayaan-3, India aims to rectify past setbacks and achieve a historic soft landing near the Moon's South Pole. If successful, India will be the first country to achieve this feat, breaking the trend of landings in the equatorial region.

Key Milestones and Implications

Launched on July 14, 2023, Chandrayaan-3's upcoming attempt at soft landing is scheduled for August 23. The mission's success will not only establish India as the fourth country to achieve a soft landing on the Moon but also as the first to accomplish it near the South Pole.

Prior successful missions were conducted by the US, China, and the Soviet Union.

A Critical Step Towards Advancing Lunar Exploration

Chandrayaan-3 represents India's steadfast commitment to advancing lunar exploration and scientific research. The space agency's determination to overcome challenges and leverage technological advancements has garnered global attention and appreciation.

ISRO's Vision and Ongoing Endeavors

The Chandrayaan-3 mission showcases ISRO's continuous efforts to push the boundaries of space exploration. The space agency remains focused on harnessing the potential of open space and further contributing to humankind's understanding of celestial bodies.

A Promising Future for India's Space Program

As the spacecraft embarks on its lunar journey, excitement and anticipation build among the global space community. India's pursuit of a successful soft landing on the Moon signifies the nation's growing capabilities and ambition in the field of space exploration.

Some relevant and latest facts for the above news:

  • The Chandrayaan-3 spacecraft is a 3,850-kilogram (8,490-pound) orbiter, lander, and rover.

  • The orbiter is equipped with a number of scientific instruments, including a high-resolution camera, a lunar mineralogy mapper, and a radar altimeter.

  • The lander is designed to soft-land on the lunar surface near the South Pole.

  • The rover is designed to travel up to 500 meters (1,640 feet) on the lunar surface.

  • The Chandrayaan-3 mission is expected to cost around $1 billion.

  • The mission is scheduled to last for one year.

Here are some of the latest facts about the Chandrayaan-3 mission:

  • The spacecraft's trans-lunar injection (TLI) was successfully performed on August 1, 2023.

  • The Lunar-Orbit Insertion (LOI) is planned for August 5, after which the spacecraft will enter lunar orbit.

  • The soft landing on the lunar surface is scheduled for August 23.

  • The mission is being closely monitored by scientists and engineers at ISRO.

  • The success of the Chandrayaan-3 mission would be a major achievement for India's space program.

TWN In-Focus