The upcoming Chandrayaan-3 mission by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is set to go beyond studying the Moon. The lander and rover, named Vikram and Pragyan, will explore the lunar surface and atmosphere during their short mission life of one lunar day. Meanwhile, the orbiter is tasked with a unique mission – studying the Earth for signs of life that could help in the search for life on other planets.
ISRO Chairman S Somanath revealed in an exclusive interview that the instruments on the lander and rover will be the same as those on their predecessor, Chandrayaan-2. The primary objectives of the mission are to study the surface and atmospheric characteristics of the Moon. The lander and rover will conduct mineral and constituent element studies, as well as analyze the low-height atmospheric and electrostatic characteristics of the Moon.
Although there is no indication of life on the Moon, ISRO is interested in studying its thermophysical and static electric charge characteristics, as well as conducting a seismological study. However, the key role of the orbiter is to use a spectrographic instrument to search for signatures of life on Earth. These signatures will then be used to identify potential signs of life on other exoplanets in the future.
The study of exoplanets has recently gained significant attention from astronomers worldwide. Several exoplanets have already been discovered, some of which orbit stars that are relatively close to our own Solar System. Current remote sensing techniques focus on determining the distance between planets and their stars, as well as analyzing the composition of their atmospheres. Scientists are particularly interested in the presence of water and oxygen.
By studying Earth and its unique characteristics, scientists hope to establish correlations between our planet and potential exoplanets that may have similar conditions for supporting life. It is important to note that life forms on exoplanets may differ from those on Earth. Contrary to popular belief, they may not be carbon and oxygen-based.
The launch of Chandrayaan-3 is scheduled for August 23 or 24 from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota. The lander is expected to softly land on the lunar surface, enabling the mission to commence its scientific experiments. With this mission, ISRO aims to further our understanding of the Moon while also contributing to the search for life beyond our own celestial neighborhood.
