Express View on Chandrayaan-3: To moon, with love

Source: The post is based on the article “Express View on Chandrayaan-3: To moon, with love” published in “India Express” on 14th July 2023.

Syllabus: GS 3- Awareness in the field of space

News: India is preparing for its second moon landing mission, Chandrayaan-3. This mission comes after the first attempt with Chandrayaan-2 in 2019, which ended in a crash-landing. The ISRO team has made improvements to prevent a similar outcome.

What is the significance of Chandrayaan-3?

The hope and expectations of a nation: Over a billion Indians are following Chandrayaan-3’s journey with hope and optimism. They are tracking its path to the moon and the planned soft-landing in late August. This mission carries the dreams of a nation aiming for space success.

A rebound from past disappointments: Chandrayaan-3 is significant as it represents a comeback after the disappointment of Chandrayaan-2. This mission is a chance for ISRO to learn from past failures and make advancements in space exploration.

A stepping stone to greater achievements: The Chandrayaan-3 mission is not just about reaching the moon. It’s a stepping stone to bigger space adventures. Successful landing on the moon would unlock new opportunities for ISRO and pave the way for future missions like Gaganyaan, and others to the Sun and Venus.

Boost to India’s space status: A successful Chandrayaan-3 mission would reaffirm India’s position among top space-faring nations. It could lead to increased collaboration with other international space agencies, bolstering ISRO’s global standing.

What’s the role of private sector in India’s space ambitions?

Private sector’s new role in India’s space industry: The Indian government has opened up the space sector for private companies. This marks a new phase for the country’s space ambitions.

Allowing ISRO to focus on research and exploration: By involving private companies, ISRO can focus more on space research and exploration. This way, ISRO can dedicate its resources to significant missions like Chandrayaan-3 and others in the future.

Providing routine services in space sector: Private companies will take care of routine services in the space sector. These services could include launching satellites and other operations.

Creating a space technology ecosystem: The entry of private companies helps to create a broader space technology ecosystem. This ecosystem can support the development and growth of India’s space ambitions.

Boosting talent and resource base: With private sector involvement, there’s a chance to expand the talent and resource base in the space sector. More people and resources can aid ISRO in its future missions.

How can Chandrayaan-3 impact the future of ISRO?

Potential for learning and growth: Chandrayaan-3 can offer ISRO valuable experience and lessons, helping it to grow. Learning from the mission can aid future endeavors like the Gaganyaan project or missions to study the Sun and Venus.

Reaffirming India’s place in space: The success of Chandrayaan-3 would confirm India’s place among top space-faring nations. It could encourage more global collaborations, like with NASA or the European Space Agency.

Boosting confidence in future missions: If successful, Chandrayaan-3 can build confidence for future ISRO missions. A successful moon landing can reassure the team and the nation about the feasibility of future ambitious projects.

Attracting more support: Success with Chandrayaan-3 could attract more support, including funding and talent, for ISRO’s future missions.