Chandrayaan-2 Launches to Explore the Moon
Chandrayaan-2, India's ambitious lunar exploration mission, was launched from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre using a GSLV Mark III M1 rocket. The mission features an orbiter, a lander named Vikram, and a rover called Pragyan. It aims to explore the Moon's south pole region, a site of significant scientific interest. The primary goal of the mission is to enhance our understanding of the Moon's surface and environment, thus contributing to lunar science.
Chandrayaan-2 aims to study the lunar south pole.
It includes an orbiter, lander, and rover.
Launched using the GSLV Mark III M1 rocket.
Aims to enhance India's space exploration capabilities.
What Happened?
Chandrayaan-2 marks a significant leap for the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) as it undertakes its second lunar exploration mission following the success of Chandrayaan-1 in 2008. Launched from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre on Sriharikota, India, the mission uses the GSLV Mark III M1 rocket, the most powerful launcher developed by ISRO to date. This carefully orchestrated mission includes a lunar orbiter, as well as the Vikram lander and the Pragyan rover, which are designed to conduct detailed studies of the Moon's surface and perform in-situ experiments.The Chandrayaan-2 orbiter carries eight scientific instruments that will conduct remote sensing observations of the Moon, particularly focusing on its south polar region, an area that has intrigued scientists due to the presence of water ice and potential resources. The Vikram lander is equipped to demonstrate a soft landing on the lunar surface, a feat that has been attempted by several countries. By deploying the Pragyan rover, ISRO aims to explore the lunar terrain and analyze soil samples, thereby contributing substantially to global lunar research. The precision and complexity of the mission epitomize India's growing capabilities in space exploration.Chandrayaan-2 was initiated with the goal of enhancing India's prowess in space technology and its position in the international space community. As a follow-up to a previous successful mission, ISRO's pursuit of lunar exploration encapsulates an exciting era for space discovery, promising new scientific breakthroughs and innovation. The entire mission is not only a testament to technological advancement but also an emblem of national pride and ambition, benefiting current and future generations in understanding our closest celestial neighbor.
Why Does it Matter?
Chandrayaan-2 is noteworthy for its pursuit of lunar science, particularly its emphasis on exploring the Moon's south pole, which is less studied compared to other lunar regions. The mission represents India's ambitious plans for space exploration and enhances its global standing in this field. The advancements made through the mission are expected to provide insights that could shape future lunar and space exploration efforts.