by Sanjana Venkataraman
In a monumental leap towards lunar exploration, India’s Chandrayaan-3 mission achieved a historic feat on Aug. 23, 2023. The lunar lander and rover, meticulously crafted by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), touched down within the expanse of the Moon’s south polar region. This remarkable achievement has not only etched India’s name among the pioneers of lunar exploration but has also marked the nation’s commitment to scientific advancement and technological excellence.
Assistant Professor of Physics and resident astrophysicist at the College, Dr. Laura DeGroot shared her thoughts on this exciting moment for India.
“With this landing, India is the fourth country to land on the moon, only the second in the twenty-first century. India’s space program has grown immensely over the years, and the pride the nation had during the landing was incredible!” DeGroot explained that this landing will shift space and astrophysics history. “The success of this mission is highlighted further by the failed attempt by Russia only days before India’s success. This successful mission also highlights the growth in the Indian space program, considering the country’s lander in 2019 failed.” DeGroot explained that this landing will shift space and astrophysics history.
She described that “the Chandrayaan-3 spacecraft landing site is closer to the south pole of the Moon than any other missions. This region is of special interest due to our ongoing search for water on other moons and planets. In this polar region, there are deep, dark craters that do not receive sunlight, making them cold enough for water ice to exist. Studies from orbiting instruments have found evidence of ice concentrated in these lunar craters, making this area of the Moon a key location where a lunar base could be established. There is also the benefit that the lunar south pole experiences extended periods of sunlight, which would provide energy necessary to operate different technologies and sustain life support systems.
“On board the lander and rover are some great instruments that could change what we know about the Moon. The lander includes a seismometer, which would extend the study of moon quakes beyond the data provided by the seismometers placed during the Apollo missions. Additionally, the rover has tools to investigate chemical and elemental composition of the lunar soil and rocks, which will likely provide great insight into any differences across the Moon’s composition as well as signs of frozen water.”
With precision and finesse, Chandrayaan-3 showcased the culmination of human inventiveness and tireless dedication. The primary aim of the mission was to demonstrate a seamless relationship between cutting-edge technology and scientific exploration. Through meticulous data transmission from its orbital counterpart, the rover will provide an intricate understanding of the moon’s features from varying perspectives.
However, the mission’s reach doesn’t end with the rover’s explorations. Indian scientists have created a projection module that orbits the Moon nonstop as a symbol of their dedication to the pursuit of knowledge. This module acts as a bridge, ensuring that the communication lines between the lunar surface and Earth remain unbroken. Additionally there exists a communications relay satellite, a sentinel in space, that plays a vital role in transferring the wealth of exploration data back to our planet, connecting us with the lunar landscape. In a world gripped by an enthusiasm for lunar ambitions, the Chandrayaan-3 mission stands as a beacon of human potential. It signifies not just a technological accomplishment, but a reminder that human curiosity knows no bounds. The mission beckons us to explore, to question and to push the limits of our understanding. As we look back on this achievement, we’re reminded that the allure of the cosmos continues to guide our aspirations, propelling us towards a future where the mysteries of the Moon and beyond are unveiled one discovery at a time.