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Chandrayaan-3 on the Moon | Bollywood Think Tank
Bengaluru/ New Delhi: Today, a historic moment unfolds as Chandrayaan-3 successfully lands on the lunar surface, marking a significant stride in India's space exploration journey. The successful landing is a testament to the meticulous planning and technological prowess of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).
"15 Minutes of Terror": Navigating the Final Phase
Former ISRO Chief, K Sivan, aptly described the final phase of Chandrayaan-2's Moon landing as '15 minutes of terror'. This phrase underscores the immense challenges posed by the intricate process of landing a spacecraft on the Moon, and these challenges were no different for Chandrayaan-3.
From Horizontal to Vertical: The Crucial Transition
One of the primary hurdles in Chandrayaan-3's landing mission was transitioning the spacecraft from a horizontal to a vertical position. This seemingly simple but technically intricate maneuver demanded careful execution, as noted by space strategist PK Ghosh in an interview with news agency ANI.
Controlled Speed: A Pivotal Factor
Speed emerged as another pivotal factor that could affect the rover's safe landing. Ensuring controlled speed was crucial to avoid a crash landing. According to an ISRO official quoted by ANI, the descent strategy involved progressively reducing the speed as the lander descended. Starting from a height of 30 km, the speed was 1.68 km/sec, then reducing to 3 m/sec at 7.5 km altitude. Ultimately, the lander would halt at a height of 800 m with zero speed.
Algorithm Precision: Learning from Setbacks
At this point, a critical sequence unfolded. The lander's two engines were shut down, allowing it to descend vertically using reverse thrust, guided by precise algorithms. This moment was of paramount importance, especially considering the algorithm failure that contributed to the setback in Chandrayaan-2's landing attempt. Aerospace Scientist Professor Radhakant Padhi emphasized that lessons had been learned and adjustments made to ensure robustness in the lander's algorithm.
Position Determination: The Role of LPDC Images
The role of LPDC images in determining the lander's position was a concern as well. These images aided the lander module in accurately establishing its latitude and longitude by matching them with an onboard moon reference map. Both speed control and algorithm accuracy were intertwined in influencing this process. If the lander failed to halt its speed, a potential crash landing loomed.
Salvage Mode: Designing for Contingencies
The Chandrayaan-3 mission encompassed the 1,752 kg Vikram lander and the 26 kg Pragyan rover. Notably, the lander was equipped with a 'salvage mode,' designed to ensure a landing even in the face of adversities. ISRO Chairman S Somnath underlined that the mission's design included contingencies. Even if some sensors malfunctioned or failed, the lander would persevere in landing, provided the propulsion system operated as planned.
A Historic Moment: Touchdown on the Moon
In a historic moment, Chandrayaan-3 gracefully touched down on the Moon's surface today at 6.04 pm, marking a significant achievement for India's space endeavors. This triumph over challenges highlights ISRO's unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of space exploration and technology.
About ISRO: Elevating India's Global Standing in Space Technology and Exploration
Established on August 15, 1969, ISRO operates under the Department of Space and is headquartered in Bengaluru, India.
Led by a team of eminent scientists and engineers, ISRO has made significant contributions to space technology, satellite communication, remote sensing, and planetary exploration.
ISRO's primary objective is to harness space technology for various applications, including communication, navigation, meteorology, and scientific research.
The organization has successfully launched a multitude of satellites for both domestic and international clients, solidifying its reputation as a reliable and cost-effective provider of launch services.
The Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) and the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV) are the workhorses of ISRO's launch vehicle fleet, renowned for their efficiency and versatility.
One of ISRO's most notable achievements is the Chandrayaan and Mangalyaan missions.
Chandrayaan, India's lunar exploration program, comprised multiple missions aimed at studying the Moon's surface, mineral composition, and lunar exosphere.
The Mars Orbiter Mission, popularly known as Mangalyaan, marked India's first interplanetary mission and achieved global recognition for its success in entering Mars' orbit on its maiden attempt.
ISRO's consistent efforts in remote sensing have facilitated applications in agriculture, forestry, disaster management, and urban planning.
The Cartosat series of satellites and the Resourcesat and RISAT series greatly enhanced India's capabilities in earth observation.
In the realm of communication, ISRO has deployed a comprehensive satellite network, enabling telecommunications, broadcasting, and broadband services across India and neighboring regions.
The GSAT series of communication satellites plays a pivotal role in ensuring connectivity and information dissemination.
ISRO's pursuit of space research is complemented by its focus on education and outreach.
The organization promotes scientific temper and space awareness among students and
the general public through programs such as Space Science Exhibitions and student satellite initiatives.
To sustain its momentum and propel future space exploration, ISRO has laid out ambitious plans, including the Gaganyaan mission,
which aims to send Indian astronauts into space.
Additionally, ISRO envisions advancements in reusable launch vehicle technology, interplanetary exploration, and the continued expansion of its satellite services.
In conclusion, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) stands as a testament to India's prowess in space technology and research.
With a track record of successful missions, innovative technologies, and an unwavering commitment to scientific advancement,
ISRO continues to make significant contributions to space exploration and utilization on both national and global scales.
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