India has asserted its status as a space superpower by successfully landing the Chandrayaan-3 mission on the moon’s unexplored south pole. Launched last month, the spacecraft touched down at approximately 8:34 a.m. ET, making India the fourth nation—following Russia, the U.S., and China—to achieve a moon landing and the first to conquer a lunar pole.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi joined the live broadcast from the BRICS summit in Johannesburg, South Africa. He stated, “India’s successful moon mission is not just India’s alone … this success belongs to all of humanity,” emphasizing that this accomplishment inspires the entire world.
The lunar south pole, now a focus of exploration due to t
The discovery of water ice holds promise as a base for future space endeavors. Wendy Cobb, a professor at the U.S. Air Force School of Advanced Air and Space Studies, noted the significance of water presence, as it could serve as rocket fuel.
India’s space prowess is evident geopolitically, highlighted by its collaboration with NASA through the Artemis Accords and plans to send Indian astronauts to the International Space Station. Despite a more modest budget compared to NASA’s, ISRO achieved substantial progress. The Chandrayaan-3 mission, delayed by the pandemic, estimated a cost of around $75 million.
India’s triumphant moon mission showcases its capabilities, determination, and global collaboration in the realm of space exploration.
Courtesy: CNBC