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Chandrayaan-3 Mission: Pragyan Rover’s Lunar Discoveries and Unforeseen Heat

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Introduction

In a groundbreaking announcement, the Chandrayaan-3 mission has revealed new insights into the lunar surface, thanks to the Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscope (LIBS) instrument onboard the Pragyan rover. Notably, the presence of sulfur (S) near the Moon’s south pole has been unambiguously confirmed, marking the first-ever in-situ measurement of this element.

Chandrayaan-3 : LIBS Confirms Presence of Sulfur and Other Elements

The LIBS instrument has also successfully detected a range of other elements such as Aluminum (Al), Calcium (Ca), Iron (Fe), Chromium (Cr), Titanium (Ti), Manganese (Mn), Silicon (Si), and Oxygen (O), aligning with scientists’ expectations. Notably, a search for hydrogen (H) is currently underway, adding another layer of excitement to the mission.

The mission, which aims to uncover the Moon’s secrets, has not been without its challenges. The Pragyan rover reported encountering a 4-meter diameter crater just 3 meters from its position on the lunar surface. To ensure its safety, the rover was commanded to backtrack and find a new route forward.

Amidst these challenges, the Pragyan rover is racing against time, striving to achieve its mission objectives within a tight timeframe. The successful soft landing on the lunar surface and the rover’s mobility have already been accomplished, with valuable science data being collected through the attached payloads.

Urgency and Dedication to Scientific Discovery

Nilesh M Desai, Director of the Space Applications Centre, emphasized the urgency of the mission, with only 14 days available—equivalent to one lunar day—to maximize scientific endeavors. With four days already completed, the team is working tirelessly to extract as much information as possible in the remaining time.

Surprising Lunar Surface Temperatures

This mission marks a significant milestone for India, as Chandrayaan-3 became the fourth country—following the US, China, and Russia—to successfully land on the Moon’s surface. The Vikram lander, a key component of the mission, recorded an unexpectedly high temperature of 70 degrees Celsius on the lunar surface, far exceeding initial expectations.

ISRO scientists were taken aback by this revelation, as it significantly surpasses the projected temperature range of 20 to 30 degrees Celsius. The Chandra’s Surface Thermophysical Experiment (ChaSTE) payload, part of the Vikram lander, was responsible for measuring the temperature profile of the lunar topsoil around the pole. The payload is equipped with temperature sensors and a controlled penetration mechanism, allowing it to reach a depth of 10 centimeters below the surface.

Unraveling Lunar Temperature Variations

The temperature variations on the Moon’s surface have posed intriguing questions. The temperature difference of about 50 degrees Celsius within a few centimeters of depth is a fascinating phenomenon, contrasting with Earth’s relatively stable underground temperatures.

Advancing Space Exploration and Knowledge

As the mission continues to unfold, the Chandrayaan-3 team is excited to unravel more mysteries and contribute to our understanding of the Moon’s composition and behavior. With detailed observations underway and the clock ticking, this mission exemplifies India’s dedication to space exploration and scientific advancement.

Also Read : Chandrayaan-3’s Successful Soft Moon Landing: India’s Moment of Pride

Also Read : ISRO’s Spectacular Moon Landing: Chandrayaan-3 Live on YouTube

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