Chandrayaan-2: A Partial Success Despite Challenges

IndiaSpace Research Organisation (ISRO) chairman K Sivan's statement that Chandrayaan-2 is '98% success' accurately reflects the technical accomplishment and scientific objectives achieved. However, the loss of the lander Vikram moments before touchdown signifies a significant setback for the mission.

Partially Successful Mission

The Chandrayaan-2 mission, which includes an orbiter, lander (Vikram), and rover, was partially successful. While the Vikram lander followed the mission's schedule, it faced a critical issue when the lander was approximately 2.1 kilometers from the lunar surface. The contact with the Vikram lander was lost late at night, and subsequently, no more data was received. This event deeply affected the land of the mission and the emotional response of the Indian public, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The Role of ISRO Scientists and Country's Response

The Indian scientists involved in the mission worked tirelessly to realize the ambitious goals set. Their dedication and the nation's support were evident as many watched the mission live. When Vikram failed to land, ISRO faced criticism and disappointment, which Emphasized the complexity and challenges of achieving lunar exploration goals.

Mission Overview: A Technological Leap

The Chandrayaan-2 mission is a significant technological improvement from previous ISRO missions, combining an orbiter, lander, and rover for the first time. The mission aims to explore the lunar South Pole, covering extensive regions of the lunar surface and subsurface in a single operation. This mission is unique in the context of lunar exploration, aiming to provide a comprehensive study of the Moon.

Why Explore the Moon?

The primary reasons for exploring the Moon include:

Understanding Moon's History: The Moon offers a critical record for the early history of our solar system, providing valuable insights into Earth's early history and the evolution of the inner solar system. The Chandrayaan-2 mission aims to enhance this understanding through extensive lunar surface analysis.

Scientific Objectives: The mission's scientific objectives include studying the presence of water molecules, mapping the lunar surface, and understanding the distribution of water on the lunar exosphere. These studies are vital for addressing fundamental questions about the Moon's water resources and their significance to the origin of the Moon.

Lunar South Pole Exploration: The South Pole is of particular interest because of the presence of permanently shadowed areas, which may harbor water ice. The region also contains cold traps that preserve a fossil record of the early solar system. Exploring this region is crucial for understanding the Moon's geological and chemical history.

Challenges and Gains

Despite Vikram's loss, the Chandrayaan-2 mission has achieved several milestones:

Successful Orbiter Deployment: The orbiter, which continues to function, provides crucial data about the lunar environment and potential resources.

Rover Operations: The rover, though not venturing far from the mother ship, has conducted valuable tests and data collection.

Technological Advancements: The mission highlights India's ability to design and operate complex space missions, setting a precedent for future lunar and planetary exploration.

Conclusion

Chandrayaan-2, despite the setback with the Vikram lander, represents a significant step in lunar exploration for ISRO and India. The mission's goals remain relevant, and the success of the orbiter and rover further underscore the value of such endeavors. Future missions will build upon the lessons learned and the gained experience, paving the way for more ambitious space exploration.