Stay updated on the live progress of India’s Chandrayaan – 3 – indiansupdate.com
A pivotal moment for the country’s space ambitions. This mission holds significance for lunar exploration and India’s reputation as a space power, following a recent Russian lander crash. The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) aims to successfully land its Chandrayaan-3 spacecraft on the lunar south pole at around 6:04 p.m. local time on Wednesday. ISRO is prepared to activate the spacecraft’s automatic landing sequence, relying on advanced algorithms to guide the descent and ensure a safe landing.
With the hopes and support of millions, India approaches the threshold of the prestigious space league as it embarks on its second moon landing attempt. The Vikram lander is now positioning itself for the crucial descent phase, often referred to as the nerve-wracking “20 minutes of terror,” which is set to commence at 5:44 p.m.
The Lander Module (LM) of ISRO’s Chandrayaan-3, launched on July 14, has successfully touched down on the Moon’s surface on August 23. The LM is currently following its intended trajectory towards the lunar surface, as confirmed by the space organization.
Previously, on August 18, ISRO effectively executed the first deboosting operation, which adjusted the orbit to 113 km x 157 km. This was accomplished after the separation of the lander module from the propulsion module, following a 34-day journey towards the Moon. Subsequently, on August 20, the second and final deboost maneuver was performed to position the Lander Module at an orbit of 25 km x 134 km.
The Lander, carrying the Rover, is now orbiting at 25 km x 134 km, preparing for its planned Moon landing on August 23 around 6:04 p.m. IST. The powered descent is anticipated to commence approximately at 5:45 p.m.
A day ahead of the crucial soft landing, the Indian Space Research Organisation has provided reassurance that the Chandrayaan-3 mission remains on schedule. Rigorous checks are ongoing, and the Mission Operations Complex (MOX) is bustling with enthusiasm and anticipation.”