What is the main task of India’s third moon mission which could not be achieved in its earlier mission? List the countries that have achieved this task. Introduce the subsystems in the spacecraft launched and explain the role of the Virtual Launch Control Centre’ at the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre which contributed to the successful launch from Sriharikota. (250 words) (UPSC GS 3 2023/15 marks)
The Chandrayaan 3 mission not only showcased India's technological capabilities but also contributed significantly to lunar research, especially in confirming the presence of water ice. it stands as a testament to India's commitment to pushing the boundaries of space exploration for the benefit of humanity.
Introduction
In 2023, India achieved a significant milestone in space exploration with its third moon mission, Chandrayaan 3. This mission marked a remarkable success as it executed a soft landing on the lunar south pole.
Main Tasks of Chandrayaan 3 Which Could Not Be Achieved in Earlier Mission
1. Successful Soft Landing
- Chandrayaan 3's primary goal to achieve soft landing on the Moon's surface, which was successfully made on 23 September 2023.
- Chandrayaan 2's Vikram lander had failed in this aspect in 2019.
2. South Pole Exploration
- Chandrayaan 3 has targeted the lunar south pole, which is of interest due to the presence of water ice in shadowed craters.
3. Pragyan Rover Deployment
- Chandrayaan 3 deployed Pragyan rover on the Moon.
- The rover conducted surface exploration and collected scientific data on the presence of Helium, water, rare earth minerals etc.
4. Technology Validation
- The mission aimed to validate and improve lunar mission technologies.
- This would benefit future lunar and space exploration missions.
Countries that have achieved successful soft landings on the Moon:
1. United States (Apollo missions)
2. Soviet Union (Luna missions)
3. China (Chang'e missions)
4. India (Chandrayaan 3)
Subsystems in the spacecraft launched by India (Chandrayaan 3):
1. Orbiter: The orbiter is a spacecraft that orbits the Moon and performs remote sensing operations, capturing images and data from lunar surface.
2. Lander: The lander is designed to carry scientific instruments and equipment to the lunar surface for in-situ studies. It consists of lander Vikram and rover Pragyan.
3. Rover: The rover is a mobile vehicle designed to move across the lunar surface, conducting experiments and collecting data.
4. Communication Systems: Chandrayaan 3 includes communication systems to relay data between the spacecraft and mission control on Earth.
5. Navigation and Guidance Systems: These systems are essential for precise control of the spacecraft's trajectory and landing.
6. Power Systems: Use of solar power to make the Rover functional for 1 lunar day (14 earth days).
7. Scientific Instruments: These instruments are used for scientific research and exploration of the Moon's surface, composition, and environment.
Role of the 'Virtual Launch Control Centre' at the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre:
1. Remote Monitoring: The Virtual Launch Control Centre allowed for real-time remote monitoring of all aspects of the launch from Sriharikota, including the spacecraft's status, rocket performance, and trajectory.
2. Data Analysis: It collected and analyzed data from various sensors and instruments on both the launch vehicle and the spacecraft, ensuring that all systems were functioning correctly.
3. Simulation and Testing: The center likely conducted simulations and testing scenarios to prepare for various contingencies and emergencies that could occur during launch.
4. Decision-Making: It played a crucial role in decision-making during critical phases of the launch, such as assessing weather conditions and making adjustments to the launch schedule if necessary.
5. Communication Hub: It served as a central hub for communication between the launch team, mission control, and other relevant stakeholders, ensuring seamless coordination during the launch.
6. Problem Resolution: In the event of any anomalies or technical issues, the Virtual Launch Control Centre would have been instrumental in diagnosing problems and formulating solutions to ensure a successful launch.
7. Overall Management: It provided oversight and management of the entire launch operation, ensuring that all components of the mission were integrated and synchronized for a successful soft landing on the Moon's south pole.
Conclusion
The Chandrayaan 3 mission not only showcased India's technological capabilities but also contributed significantly to lunar research, especially in confirming the presence of water ice. it stands as a testament to India's commitment to pushing the boundaries of space exploration for the benefit of humanity.