India's Second Lunar Exploration Mission
Chandrayaan-2 is the second lunar exploration mission by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), following the success of Chandrayaan-1 in 2008. Launched on July 22, 2019, this ambitious mission aimed to further India's lunar exploration efforts by studying the Moon's surface and its composition, as well as searching for water ice in the polar regions. Chandrayaan-2 holds immense scientific significance as it aimed to build upon the discoveries and data from Chandrayaan-1, particularly in the context of lunar water and mineral resources. The mission sought to expand our understanding of the Moon's geology, topography, and exosphere, which could have important implications for future lunar exploration, resource utilization, and space science.
Mission Objectives
Orbiter :
The orbiter is the heart of Chandrayaan-2, tasked with conducting extensive scientific observations from lunar orbit. It carries a suite of advanced scientific instruments, including cameras, spectrometers, and radar systems, designed to capture high-resolution images and collect data about the Moon's surface and environment.The orbiter component of Chandrayaan-2 is designed to orbit the Moon and conduct remote sensing observations.
Equipment Used in the Construction of Chandrayaan-2
Significance of Chandrayaan-2
Chandrayaan-2 holds immense scientific significance as it aimed to build upon the discoveries and data from Chandrayaan-1, particularly in the context of lunar water and mineral resources. The mission sought to expand our understanding of the Moon's geology, topography, and exosphere, which could have important implications for future lunar exploration, resource utilization, and space science.Chandrayaan-2 represents India's commitment to advancing its space exploration capabilities and contributing to our collective understanding of the Moon. While the mission faced challenges during its landing phase, the orbiter continues to be operational and has made significant scientific contributions.
Chandrayaan's Shortcomings Leading to Unsuccessful Mission
Despite the disappointment of the unsuccessful landing attempt, it's important to note that the Chandrayaan-2 mission was not a complete failure. The orbiter component of the mission continued to operate successfully and provided valuable scientific data about the Moon, including the discovery of water ice on the lunar surface.
ISRO learned valuable lessons from the Vikram lander's landing attempt, and India has expressed its commitment to continue its lunar exploration efforts in the future with subsequent missions. As of my last knowledge update in September 2021, ISRO had plans for Chandrayaan-3, which would be a follow-up mission to address the lessons learned from Chandrayaan-2's landing attempt.
Some Memorable Pictures from Chandrayaan-2
Our Scientists
Kailasavadivoo Sivan
He was the Chairman of ISRO during the Chandrayaan-2 mission. He provided leadership and direction to the entire project.
Ritu Karidhal
Often referred to as the "Rocket Woman of India," Ritu Karidhal was the Deputy Operations Director for the Mars Orbiter Mission
Mylswamy Annadurai
He served as the Director of ISRO Satellite Centre (ISAC) and was the project director for Chandrayaan-2