India Gears Up For Yet Another Groundbreaking Lunar Mission

Prof. Ranjan, who has made notable contributions to Chandrayaan-1 and Chandrayaan-2, proposed a groundbreaking method for measuring seismic activity on the Moon, in collaboration with the Physical Research Laboratory (PRL).

India is on the verge of achieving another significant milestone in space exploration as the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) gears up for the Chandrayaan-4 mission. This ambitious venture builds on the remarkable success of Chandrayaan-3 in 2023, which made India the first nation to land near the Moon's South Pole.

Chandrayaan-4 is designed to enhance lunar exploration by focusing on detailed resource mapping, subsurface studies, and experiments that are essential for establishing a sustainable human presence on the Moon.

The mission incorporates groundbreaking features, including two specialized rovers—one for surface exploration and another equipped to probe beneath the lunar surface in search of water ice and other vital resources.

Additionally, it aims to test advanced energy-generation technologies to support extended lunar operations, signifying a leap forward in India’s space capabilities.

Scheduled for a 2027 launch aboard the GSLV Mk III rocket, the mission is a pivotal step toward ISRO’s vision of long-term lunar exploration.

Chandrayaan-4 is further strengthened by extensive international collaboration.

ISRO has partnered with NASA, the European Space Agency (ESA), and other global entities to integrate advanced technologies and leverage data-sharing agreements. This collaboration ensures the mission is equipped with high-resolution imaging systems, sophisticated spectrometers, and autonomous robotic systems, enabling comprehensive lunar studies. These partnerships highlight India’s growing stature as a reliable player in global space exploration.

A collaborative global effort:

NASA’s Apollo program set the standard for human space exploration by successfully landing astronauts on the Moon between 1969 and 1972. The Soviet Union’s Luna program also achieved key milestones, including the first robotic lunar sample return. In recent years, China’s Chang’e program has demonstrated advanced capabilities, with Chang’e 4 achieving the first soft landing on the Moon’s far side in 2019 and Chang’e 5 returning lunar samples in 2020.

These missions have significantly advanced our understanding of the Moon’s geology and resources, paving the way for future exploration.

Chandrayaan-4 aims to establish its unique contribution by exploring the largely uncharted South Polar region, which is believed to contain water ice deposits that are crucial for supporting human missions.

Through detailed mineralogical and subsurface analyses, ISRO seeks to make a meaningful contribution to global lunar science and technology. Vision of Indian scientists:

The mission’s focus on sustainable energy solutions and autonomous operations reflects India’s forward-thinking approach to space exploration.

Highlighting the importance of the mission, ISRO Chairperson Dr. S. Somanath stated, “With Chandrayaan-4, we aim to deepen our understanding of the Moon’s resources and prepare for the future of human exploration. This mission reflects India’s dedication to advancing space technology and contributing to global scientific knowledge.” Talking to this writer, Prof. Prabhat Ranjan, Vice-chancellor of DY Patil International University, Akurdi, said, "In-situ exploration of the Moon marks a crucial step in unlocking its geological secrets and harnessing its resources. By developing innovative tools like the Moon Sensing Drill, we are paving the way for deeper scientific understanding, sustainable human presence, and transformative advances in space exploration."

Adding to the mission’s technological advancements, Prof. Ranjan has played a significant role in lunar exploration. Prof. Ranjan, who has made notable contributions to Chandrayaan-1 and Chandrayaan-2, proposed a groundbreaking method for measuring seismic activity on the Moon, in collaboration with the Physical Research Laboratory (PRL).

This initiative was aimed at exploring the Moon's internal structure and origins through seismic data, laying the foundation for future studies into its subsurface dynamics. In recent years, Prof. Ranjan, alongside faculty from DY Patil International University and international researchers, has worked on developing advanced tools for lunar exploration. These include the Drilling and Sensing System for In-Situ Regolith Subsurface Analysis and the Soil Pebble Sampler (SPS1). These systems, equipped with integrated drilling, vibration, and preservation mechanisms, are designed to enhance the precision and efficiency of lunar resource studies.

As ISRO embarks on this monumental mission, it carries with it the hopes and aspirations of a billion Indians. Chandrayaan-4 is not merely a scientific endeavour but a testament to India’s growing role in widening the scope of humanity’s understanding of the universe. With cutting-edge technology, international cooperation, and visionary leadership, the mission represents India’s commitment to exploring new frontiers and inspiring generations to reach for the stars.

(The writer is working as a Faculty in DY Patil International University, Akurdi Pune)