CURRENT AFFAIRS
CURRENT AFFAIRS
Description
India is preparing to launch its fourth lunar mission, Chandrayaan-4, in October 2027 under the leadership of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). This mission marks a significant step forward in India's space exploration efforts, as it aims to soft-land on the Moon, collect lunar samples, and bring them back to Earth—a milestone achieved only by the USA, Russia, and China.
Mission Overview
Chandrayaan-4 will involve two separate spacecraft, each with an approximate weight of 4,750 kg. Unlike previous missions that used a single launch vehicle, two LVM3 rockets will be deployed to send the components into space. The mission will involve docking and undocking maneuvers, demonstrating India's growing technological expertise in complex space operations.
Funding And Objectives
The Government of India has allocated Rupees 2,104 crores (around $240 million) for Chandrayaan-4. The mission's primary goal is to collect samples from the Moon’s south polar region, an area of high scientific interest due to its potential water ice deposits and unexplored geological features. The successful execution of this mission will solidify India's position among elite spacefaring nations conducting sample return missions.
Significance Of Lunar Samples
Bringing lunar materials back to Earth offers unparalleled research opportunities. While robotic landers can perform on-site analysis, the range of tests is limited by onboard instruments. Transporting samples to Earth-based laboratories will enable scientists to conduct in-depth studies on the Moon’s composition, origin, and evolution.
Key Technological Innovations
Chandrayaan-4 will feature advanced robotic and drilling technologies to collect both surface and sub-surface lunar samples. A Surface Sampling Robot will gather materials, while a specialized drilling mechanism will extract deeper samples. The mission underscores India's push for self-reliance, as all core technologies will be developed domestically.
Mission Structure And Operations
Chandrayaan-4 will include five key modules:
Ascender Module (AM)
Descender Module (DM)
Re-entry Module (RM)
Transfer Module (TM)
Propulsion Module (PM)
Initially, the spacecraft will be launched into an elliptical Earth orbit, where they will dock to form an integrated system. The DM and AM will then descend onto the Moon’s surface for the sample collection process.
Sample Collection And Return To Earth
After landing, the DM will deploy a robotic arm to scoop up lunar material, while a drill system will extract sub-surface samples. The collected materials will be carefully stored in airtight containers to prevent contamination.
Once the collection process is complete:
The AM will ascend to lunar orbit, carrying the samples.
The RM will receive the samples for transport back to Earth.
The TM and RM will undock and maneuver for Earth re-entry.
The RM will undergo ballistic re-entry and land safely, ensuring the safe return of lunar samples.
Impact And Future Prospects
Chandrayaan-4 is expected to lay the groundwork for future human missions to the Moon. It will also contribute to technological advancements, job creation, and skill development within India's space sector. This mission represents an important step toward sending Indian astronauts to the Moon in the future.
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