India’s Chandrayaan-3 Moon Launch: How and When to Watch
India is gearing up for its second attempt at landing a robotic spacecraft on the surface of the moon. The mission, called Chandrayaan-3, comes after a failed 2019 landing, but this time, India is determined to succeed.
Scheduled to launch on Friday, July 14, at 5:05 a.m. Eastern time (2:35 p.m. local time), Chandrayaan-3 will be live-streamed on the Indian Space Research Organization’s (ISRO) YouTube channel, starting at 2:00 P.M.
Chandrayaan-3, which means moon craft in Hindi, will be propelled by a module that will push the spacecraft out of Earth’s orbit, allowing it to enter the moon’s orbit. Attached to the module are a lander and a rover that will attempt to set down on the lunar surface in the moon’s south polar region.
The landing is scheduled for either August 23 or 24 when the sun rises at the landing site. It will conclude two weeks later at sunset. During its time on the surface, the solar-powered lander and rover will utilize a range of instruments to gather thermal, seismic, and mineralogical data.
This mission is a redo of Chandrayaan-2, which met with disappointment in 2019. While the orbiter of Chandrayaan-2 was successful in orbiting the moon, the lander and rover, named Vikram and Pragyan, respectively, encountered difficulties during the landing attempt. The lander deviated from its planned trajectory and contact was lost.
However, the orbiter of Chandrayaan-2 is still operational and continues to conduct scientific studies using its onboard instruments. It will also serve as the communication link for Chandrayaan-3’s lander and rover. Unlike Chandrayaan-2, Chandrayaan-3 will not include another orbiter.
India’s space program is a matter of national pride and is gaining momentum with the growing presence of commercial space start-ups. The country’s successful Mangalyaan mission to Mars in 2014 was celebrated nationwide, highlighting India’s capabilities.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, a supporter of India’s space endeavors, has been present for key events. While he expressed disappointment after the Chandrayaan-2 landing incident, he emphasized the importance of the journey and the effort put forth by the team.
India has ambitious plans for its space program, including the development of Gaganyaan, a spacecraft designed to carry astronauts into orbit. Collaborating with the United States, India aims to send astronauts to the International Space Station by 2024.
India’s Chandrayaan-3 mission aims to make a successful landing on the moon and contribute to the ongoing exploration efforts. The nation’s dedication to space exploration and its growing capabilities showcase its determination to push boundaries and make significant contributions to scientific advancements.
As we eagerly await the launch of Chandrayaan-3, let us appreciate the remarkable achievements and the promising future of India’s space program.
