What are the scientific goals of the Chandrayaan-2 mission?

Asked 11-Nov-2021
Updated 22-May-2023
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The Chandrayaan-2 mission, launched by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) in July 2019, aimed to achieve several scientific goals through an ambitious lunar exploration program. The mission comprised an orbiter, a lander called Vikram, and a rover named Pragyan. Although the lander did not successfully land on the Moon's surface, the orbiter continues to orbit the Moon, conducting valuable scientific observations and experiments. The scientific goals of the Chandrayaan-2 mission include:

Lunar Surface Exploration: One of the primary objectives of Chandrayaan-2 was to explore the lunar surface in greater detail. The lander and rover were equipped with scientific instruments to study the topography, mineralogy, and elemental abundance of the lunar terrain. This data would have provided insights into the Moon's geology, helping scientists better understand its formation and evolution.

What are the scientific goals of the Chandrayaan2 mission

Water Ice Detection: Chandrayaan-2 aimed to confirm the presence of water ice on the Moon. The mission carried the Pragyan rover, which was equipped with instruments to analyze the lunar soil and search for signs of water molecules. Detection of water ice would have been significant, as it could potentially serve as a vital resource for future human missions and colonization efforts.

Lunar Seismic Activity: Another scientific objective of Chandrayaan-2 was to study the seismic activity on the Moon. The lander, Vikram, was equipped with seismometers to measure the moonquakes and study the Moon's internal structure. By understanding the Moon's seismic activity, scientists could gain insights into its geophysical properties and gain comparative knowledge with Earth's tectonic activity.

Exosphere and Plasma Studies: The Chandrayaan-2 orbiter carried scientific payloads to investigate the Moon's thin atmosphere, known as the exosphere, and its interaction with the solar wind. These studies aimed to understand the composition, dynamics, and variability of the lunar exosphere and the influence of solar radiation and magnetic fields on it. Such data would contribute to our understanding of the Moon's environment and its interaction with space.

High-Resolution Imaging: The orbiter carried high-resolution cameras to capture detailed images of the lunar surface. These images would have provided valuable data for lunar mapping, geological studies, and identifying potential landing sites for future missions. The high-resolution imaging capabilities of Chandrayaan-2 were expected to enhance our understanding of the Moon's morphology and geological features.

Payloads from International Partners: Chandrayaan-2 carried scientific payloads from international partners, including NASA. These collaborative efforts aimed to enhance the scientific output of the mission by leveraging the expertise and resources of multiple space agencies. The international payloads included instruments to measure the Moon's radiation environment, investigate the lunar soil composition, and study the lunar exosphere.

While the lander's soft landing did not go as planned, the orbiter of Chandrayaan-2 continues to operate and gather valuable data, extending the scientific mission's scope. The scientific goals of Chandrayaan-2 align with the broader objectives of lunar exploration, contributing to our understanding of the Moon's geology, environment, and potential for future human missions. The data and insights gained from Chandrayaan-2 will pave the way for future lunar missions and further expand our knowledge of Earth's closest celestial neighbor.