In the wake of the triumphant soft landing of Chandrayaan-3 on the Moon’s surface on August 23, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is now gearing up for its forthcoming solar mission, Aditya-L1. Marking India’s maiden foray into solar research from space, Aditya-L1 is slated for launch in September, as affirmed by ISRO’s director, S Somanath.
Delving into details, Somanath elucidated that while the Gaganyaan initiative remains a work in progress, a mission, set to transpire by September’s end or October’s commencement, will showcase the crew module and crew escape capabilities. These critical demonstrations are stepping stones towards the maiden manned mission, projected for realization by 2025.
Incorporating an innovative orbit, Aditya-L1 will encircle the Sun-Earth system at Lagrange point 1, thus establishing itself as India’s inaugural solar space-based endeavor. Unveiling the intricacies of the lunar voyage, Somanath elucidated the objectives of the Pragyan rover’s sojourn, spanning 14 days, wherein the rover will embark on a scientific exploration through elemental and chemical composition assessments.
Somanath expounded upon the South Pole’s strategic selection, underlining its relative dimness as a salient feature. He highlighted its potential for accommodating a greater scientific trove, as well as its pertinence to future lunar colonization endeavors. This strategic decision aligns with the broader scientific community’s vested interest in this region as the impetus for forthcoming explorations.
Noteworthy felicitation was rendered to Somanath by Karnataka’s Chief Minister Siddaramaiah at ISRO’s headquarters in Bengaluru on August 24.
With Aditya-L1 on the cusp of a historic launch, ISRO continues to unfurl India’s pioneering strides in space exploration, cementing the nation’s footprint on celestial realms.
