Chandrayaan-3 Mission Faces Communication Challenges
ISRO’s Efforts to Revive Vikram Lander and Pragyan Rover
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) announced on Friday that it has not received any signals from the Chandrayaan-3 mission’s Vikram lander and Pragyan rover. The space agency is actively working to establish communication and assess their condition.
Race Against Time
ISRO officials revealed that ground stations would attempt to revive the lander and rover, along with their onboard instruments. This endeavor is planned to take place after the dawn breaks on the Moon and optimal sunshine becomes available. However, the chances of a successful revival are quite slim. Even if they awaken, there’s no guarantee that they will regain full functionality.
Limited Lifespan
All components of the Chandrayaan-3 mission rely on solar power and were originally designed to operate for just one lunar day, which equates to about 14 Earth days. Unfortunately, this time frame has already elapsed. The mission’s electronics were not built to endure the harsh nighttime conditions on the Moon, where temperatures plunge well below minus 200 degrees Celsius, particularly near the lunar south pole where the lander and rover are situated.
A Contrast with Luna-25
In contrast, the Russian Luna-25 mission, which crash-landed on the Moon, had an advantage. It was equipped with a plutonium radioisotope device, essentially a nuclear battery, that generated heat to keep its instruments operational during the extreme cold of the lunar night.
ISRO’s Gamble
After completing its primary scientific objectives, ISRO decided to take a chance by attempting to extend the lander and rover’s lifespan. They initiated this risky move by shutting down all instrument operations shortly before lunar sunset, putting them into sleep mode. The hope was that if the batteries were fully charged, they might be able to maintain sufficient warmth to survive the frigid lunar night.
In summary, ISRO is working against the odds to revive the Vikram lander and Pragyan rover of the Chandrayaan-3 mission. While the challenges are daunting, the space agency’s determination to make the most of this mission is evident in its tireless efforts to establish communication and awaken these lunar explorers.
Also Read: Mesmerizing NASA Photo Reveals Lunar South Pole’s Eternal Darkness
