India launched the Chandrayaan-3 lander on July 14, 2023, at 2:43 PM IST. The mission aims to land on the lunar south pole on August 23, 2023. Successful completion of this mission will make India the fourth country to achieve a lunar south pole landing.
The Chandrayaan-3 mission follows the Chandrayaan-2 mission, launched in 2019. While the Chandrayaan-2 mission deployed an orbiter and a rover, the lander unfortunately crashed during its final approach to the lunar surface.
The Chandrayaan-3 mission addresses the challenges encountered during the Chandrayaan-2 mission. The lander has undergone redesigning to enhance stability and improve the landing system. Additionally, a new rover has been developed to be more mobile and capable of functioning in the harsh conditions of the lunar south pole.
This mission holds great significance for India’s space program as it demonstrates the country’s capabilities in deep space exploration. Success would pave the way for future lunar missions and beyond, marking a milestone in India’s space endeavors.
Landing on the lunar south pole presents several challenges. The region is extremely cold and dry, with temperatures dropping below -290 degrees Fahrenheit. Moreover, it is rugged, characterized by numerous craters and mountains. Additionally, the sun always remains low in the sky, resulting in limited illumination.
Despite these obstacles, the Chandrayaan-3 mission has been equipped to land safely on the lunar south pole. The lander is designed to withstand the frigid and arid conditions, boasting a robust landing system suitable for rugged terrains. It is also equipped with various sensors to navigate and locate a secure landing spot on the lunar south pole.
