India is preparing to launch Chandrayaan 3, a significant lunar mission with UPSC exam relevance, in 2022. Following delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, ISRO, as per Jitendra Singh, India’s Union Minister of State for Space, is expected to launch the spacecraft in the third quarter of this year.
Chandrayaan 3 is the third lunar exploration mission planned by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). It aims to showcase India’s soft landing capabilities on a celestial body. The mission will consist of a rover and lander, communicating with the Earth through an orbiter from Chandrayaan 2.
Background of Chandrayaan 3 Mission
ISRO achieved significant success with Chandrayaan 1, a lunar orbiter that conducted high-resolution remote sensing of the Moon. The mission also included the “Moon Impact Probe,” a space capsule that successfully detected the existence of water vapor on the Moon. However, the crash landing of Chandrayaan 2’s lander led ISRO to initiate the third phase of the Chandrayaan program.
Features of Chandrayaan 3 Spacecraft
Chandrayaan 3 will be equipped with a rover and lander, without an orbiter like Chandrayaan 2. The mission aims to explore the Moon’s surface, particularly the areas that have not received sunlight for billions of years. Scientists believe these darker regions may contain ice and abundant mineral resources. The spacecraft will also study the sub-surface and exosphere of the Moon. The rover will communicate with Earth through the orbiter from Chandrayaan 2 and capture images from a distance of 100 km above the lunar orbit.
Challenges and Importance of Exploring the Moon’s South Pole
The decision to target the Moon’s south pole with Chandrayaan 3 is driven by several reasons. The southern pole contains larger shadowed areas compared to the northern pole, which scientists believe could harbor a permanent source of water. Additionally, the craters in the southern pole are of great interest as they may contain fossil records of the early planetary system. Exploring the Moon’s south pole presents unique challenges but offers unparalleled scientific discoveries.
Launch Date and Status
Chandrayaan 3, India’s moon mission, is set for launch on July 14, 2023, with a scheduled landing on the Moon’s surface on August 23, 2023.
Chandrayaan-3 and UPSC Preparation
Aspirants preparing for the UPSC exam should stay updated on current affairs and scientific developments, including space missions like Chandrayaan 3. Understanding the objectives, features, and significance of Chandrayaan 3 will provide a solid foundation for answering questions related to India’s space exploration program in the UPSC exam.
What is Chandrayaan 3?
What are the features of the Chandrayaan 3 spacecraft?
Why is the Moon’s south pole being targeted for exploration?
When is Chandrayaan 3 scheduled for launch?
How can knowledge of Chandrayaan 3 benefit UPSC exam preparation?
What does Chandrayaan 3 represent for India?
What should UPSC aspirants focus on regarding Chandrayaan 3?
Chandrayaan 3 represents India’s continued efforts in lunar exploration and showcases the nation’s growing capabilities in space missions. Aspirants aiming for the UPSC exam should familiarize themselves with the background, features, and importance of Chandrayaan 3 to enhance their knowledge and understanding of space missions and scientific advancements. Keeping up with current affairs and ongoing developments will contribute to a well-rounded preparation for the UPSC exam.
