India’s third lunar mission, Chandrayaan-3, continues to captivate space enthusiasts as ISRO Chairman S Somanath recently revealed the remarkable resilience of the mission’s lander, Vikram. During a discussion on ‘Chandrayaan-3: Bharat’s Pride Space Mission,’ Somanath explained that Vikram’s design has been ingeniously crafted to withstand multiple failures and ensure a successful soft landing on the Moon’s surface.
Fallback Mechanisms in Place
Even in the face of challenging circumstances, Vikram’s landing capabilities remain steadfast. Somanath highlighted that if all sensors fail and two engines cease to function, Vikram is still engineered to execute a safe landing. This resilience is a testament to the meticulous planning that has gone into the mission, with the propulsion system acting as a critical component for the successful landing.
Mission Progression
Chandrayaan-3 embarked on its space journey on July 14, and after reaching lunar orbit on August 5, it is now ready for the crucial landing phase. Somanath outlined the upcoming de-orbiting maneuvers that will progressively reduce the spacecraft’s orbit, positioning Vikram for its intended landing site on August 23. These maneuvers, scheduled for August 9, August 14, and August 16, play a pivotal role in the mission’s success.
Mastering the Horizontal to Vertical Transition
Somanath delved into the intricate challenge faced by the team: transitioning Vikram from a horizontal position to a vertical one for landing. The chairman acknowledged the complexity of this task, particularly after the last mission’s unsuccessful landing attempt. To conquer this challenge, the team’s focus lies in orchestrating precise maneuvers that facilitate a smooth shift in orientation, enabling Vikram to touch down safely on the lunar surface.
Tackling Calculation Variations
The ISRO team is committed to optimizing the landing process further by accounting for potential variations in calculations. Somanath highlighted the importance of accurate distance calculations and algorithmic precision. In light of the lessons learned from previous missions, the team has put measures in place to ensure a seamless landing experience, minimizing fuel consumption and maximizing mission success.
As Chandrayaan-3’s journey unfolds, the world watches in anticipation of another monumental achievement for India’s space exploration endeavors. The meticulous planning, innovative design, and relentless determination exhibited by ISRO reaffirm the country’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of space science and technology.
