Chandrayaan 2 Mission
Chandrayaan-2 mission represents a significant technological leap compared to the previous missions of ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation). It comprised an Orbiter, Lander and Rover to explore the unexplored South Pole of the Moon.
The main purpose of this mission study of topography, seismography, mineral identification and distribution, surface chemical composition, thermo-physical characteristics of top soil and composition, also understanding of the origin and evolution of the Moon.
Chandrayaan 2 Launch
The GSLV Mk-III is India’s most powerful launcher to date, launch Chandrayaan 2
| Launch Date: | July 22, 2019 |
| Launch Vehicle: | GSLV-Mk III – M1 / Chandrayaan-2 Mission |
| Owner/ Manufacturer: | ISRO |
| Application: | Planetary Observation |
| Orbit Type: | Lunar |
Orbiter
The Orbiter will observe the lunar surface and relay communication between Earth and Chandrayaan 2. Orbiter is capable of communicating with Indian Deep Space Network (IDSN) at Byalalu as well as the Vikram Lander.
The Orbiter camera is the highest resolution camera (0.3 m) in any lunar mission so far and will provide high resolution images
Orbiter Weight-2,379 kg, Electric Power Generation Capability-1,000 W.
Vikram Lander
The Lander was designed to execute India’s first soft landing on the lunar surface, which is equivalent to about 14 Earth days.
Vikram Lander descent was as planned and normal performance was observed upto an altitude of 2.1 km.
Vikram LanderWeight-1,471 kg, Electric Power Generation Capability-650 W.
Pragyan Rover
The Rover was a 6-wheeled, AI-powered vehicle named Pragyan, which translates to ‘wisdom’ in Sanskrit.
Pragyan Rover Weight-27 kg, Electric Power Generation Capability-50 W.