Chandrayaan-5 Mission Approved, Set to Launch Advanced 250 kg Rover
The Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) has received approval for the Chandrayaan-5 mission, which will deploy a 250 kg rover on the lunar surface. Following the success of Chandrayaan-3, this mission, done in collaboration with Japan, aims to enhance lunar exploration capabilities. ISRO plans multiple future missions, including Chandrayaan-4 by 2027, and aspires to establish a $44 billion space sector by 2035.
The Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) announced that the Central government has approved the Chandrayaan-5 mission, which is set to deliver a substantial 250 kg rover to the lunar surface. This mission marks the fifth initiative in the Chandrayaan program, aimed at advancing lunar exploration. ISRO Chairman V Narayanan noted the significance of this mission following the success of Chandrayaan-3, which achieved a historic soft landing at the Moon’s South Pole, positioning India as the fourth nation to execute such a landing.
Chandrayaan-3 carried a 25-kg rover named ‘Prayagyaan’, whereas the upcoming mission will feature an advanced 250-kg rover developed in collaboration with Japan. Mr. Narayanan highlighted that, “This advanced rover aims to conduct detailed studies of the Moon’s surface and composition.” The partnership with Japan is anticipated to bolster the scientific aspects of the mission.
ISRO’s Chandrayaan program has made significant strides in lunar exploration, involving a lunar orbiter, impactor, soft lander, and rover spacecraft. The first mission, Chandrayaan-1, was launched in 2008, achieving success by mapping the Moon’s surface in various scientific dimensions. Despite setbacks during Chandrayaan-2, launched in 2019, its orbiter continues to provide high-resolution imagery of the Moon.
Looking ahead, ISRO plans to launch Chandrayaan-4 by 2027 to collect and return lunar samples, alongside advancing towards Chandrayaan-5 and 6 within the next decade. The agency has ambitious goals to reach a $44 billion space sector by 2035. Furthermore, plans are in motion for the Gaganyaan Mission, India’s first human spaceflight initiative, along with the Venus Orbiter Mission, known informally as Shukrayaan, expected in 2028. Aiming even further into the future, the establishment of an Indian Space Station by 2035 and the goal to land an Indian on the Moon by 2045 are also in ISRO’s sights.
In conclusion, the approval of the Chandrayaan-5 mission marks a significant advancement in India’s lunar exploration endeavors, highlighting ISRO’s commitment to space exploration and scientific collaboration. With a focus on enhanced capabilities through international partnerships, ISRO aims to solidify India’s position in global space initiatives while pursuing ambitious goals for the future.
Original Source: www.ndtv.com
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