Explanation –

Statements 1 and 3 are correct. Solar time is calculated based on the Earth’s rotation relative to the Sun. It is variable due to the Earth’s elliptical orbit and its axial tilt, which cause the apparent speed of the Sun’s movement across the sky to vary at different times of the year. There is currently no standardized time system for operations in cislunar space. Each country with a space program uses its own time zone, usually based on Universal Time or the location of mission control.

Statement 2 is incorrect. As of now, moon missions follow the time of the country that operates the spacecraft, which typically aligns with Coordinated Universal Time (UTC) of the Earth. The International Space Station also operates on UTC, but there hasn’t been a standardized time system specifically for the moon or cislunar operations. This lack of a standardized time system has prompted initiatives to establish a Coordinated Lunar Time (LTC) to facilitate coordination among international bodies and private companies operating on the lunar surface and in cislunar space.

Source: The Hindu