Speaking at the recently organized National Space Science Symposium, Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) chief S Somanath elaborated on India’s next lunar mission. In this regard, the ISRO chief spoke about the possible challenges in conducting the ‘Chandrayaan 4’ mission. It is also known how far the process of this fourth lunar mission has progressed.
While discussing the Chandrayaan 4 mission, S. Somanath made several points. In the case of a new mission, what should be taken care of, what kind of situation to face, what must be done, etc.
What challenges might ISRO face in differentiating Chandrayaan 4 from earlier missions?
1. Multipurpose Launcher Requirements: There was no need to return in the case of the Chandrayaan 3 mission. But the upcoming Chandrayaan 4 will need to return to Earth to deliver samples from the lunar soil.
2. Docking capacity: A rocket docking capability in either Earth or Moon orbit is essential for successful mission execution. Because if it fails in any way, the whole mission can be ruined.
3. Robotic drilling and sample handling: S. Somanath, emphasized the need for robotic capabilities to operate drills, select samples and load them safely into compartments. One of the main goals of which will be to transfer samples between modules.
How far has the Chandrayaan 4 mission progressed?
S Somnath also provided an update on the current status of their next Chandra Abhiyan mission. According to his remarks, scientists are developing an idea to successfully complete the process of collecting various types of samples from the moon and bringing them back to Earth for detailed study. The knowledge and skills of both rocket and satellite specialists are being utilized to successfully execute the complex architecture and mission of Rotec. The ISRO chief also said that a target has been set to complete the Chandrayaan 4 mission by 2027.
Incidentally, some reasons for the difference of Chandrayaan 4 mission from Chandrayaan 3 have also been highlighted. Like this time – including launch vehicle options like PSLV and LVM3 and five spacecraft modules like – Re-entry Module (RM), Transfer Module (TM), Ascender Module (AM), Descender Module (DM), Propulsion Module (PM). Done in the concept plan. Whereas previous missions only included – Lander Module, Rover and Propulsion Module.