The next phase of Chandrayaan-3 focuses on studying the lunar surface, geology, and “atmosphere” using instruments on the lander and mobile rover.
This phase spans 11 to 12 days, taking advantage of the illuminated area.
Table of Contents
Rover Deployment and Progress:
After a successful soft landing, the rover within Chandrayaan-3’s lander module has moved onto the lunar terrain.
ISRO confirms all systems are functioning normally and on schedule.
The robotic rover has detached from the lander, marking India’s entry onto the lunar surface.
Scientific Instrumentation:
The lander’s instruments, along with two on the rover, will analyze the lunar environment.
Instruments activated on the lander measure seismic activity, thermal properties of the polar region’s surface, and charged particles in the lunar atmosphere.
Anil Bharadwaj, director of the Physical Research Laboratory, expresses confidence in ongoing operations.
Rover Movement and Navigation:
Path planning is crucial for rover movements to avoid obstacles like boulders, crevices, and craters.
Chosen landing site met criteria including sunlight exposure, level surface, and efficient Earth communication.
Landing and Exploration Details:
Chandrayaan-3’s lander module landed at a predetermined site about 650 km from the lunar south pole.
This unexplored area is scientifically intriguing due to the potential presence of water ice in dark regions.
Propulsion Module and Exoplanet Search:
The spacecraft’s propulsion module remains in lunar orbit.
An instrument on the propulsion module observes Earth’s reflected light, aiding the search for habitable exoplanets.
Achievements and Historical Context:
India achieves a significant milestone by soft landing near the lunar south pole.
Joins Russia, the US, and China in lunar exploration.
Chandrayaan-3 adds to India’s planetary exploration successes, following Chandrayaan-1, Mars orbiter, and Chandrayaan-2 missions.
