Wed, Oct 09, 2024 | Updated 02:53 IST
ISRO brings back Chandrayaan-3 Propulsion Module to Earth's orbit
Dec 05, 2023
New Delhi, Dec 05 (ANI): ISRO successfully brought back Chandrayaan-3 Propulsion Module to the Earth orbit. It was brought back to the Earth’s orbit after exceeding its lunar mission objectives. It also demonstrated India's ability to not only launch objects to the Moon but also bring them back. This accomplishment shows that ISRO can restart engines on the moon and operate equipment. The primary objective of Chandrayaan-3 was to demonstrate a soft landing near lunar south-polar region. The spacecraft was launched on July 14, 2023, on board the LVM3-M4 vehicle from SDSC, SHAR. Chandrayaan-3 Vikram Lander made its historic touchdown on the Moon on August 23. The scientific instruments in the lander and rover were operated continuously for 1 lunar day. According to ISRO, the mission objectives of Chandrayaan-3 have been completely met. The initial plan was to operate this payload for about three months during the mission life of PM. Currently, Propulsion Module orbiting Earth, crossed its first perigee on Nov 22 with an altitude of 1.54 lakhs km. According to ISRO, the orbit period is nearly 13 days with a 27-degree inclination.