Chandrayaan-3 achieved a momentous landing on Wednesday at 6.04 pm, marking a triumph for the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). The landing process, which commenced at 5.20 pm on Wednesday, was broadcast live.
On Tuesday, ISRO affirmed on X (formerly known as Twitter) that the Chandrayaan-3 moon mission adhered to its schedule, with ongoing system checks.
Wednesday saw ISRO declare, “Prepared to initiate the Automatic Landing Sequence (ALS). Awaiting the Lander Module’s (LM) arrival at the designated point, approximately at 17:44 Hrs. IST. Following ALS command receipt, the LM triggers throttleable engines for powered descent. The mission operations team continuously confirms command execution. Live telecast of MOX operations starts at 17:20 Hrs. IST. India etches history by becoming the first to land on the lunar South Pole. PM Modi lauds Indians and space scientists, stating, ‘India will forever remember this day.'”
The true test commenced in the landing’s final leg. Around 20 minutes before landing, ISRO initiated the ALS, empowering Vikram LM to take control. Using its onboard computers and logic, Vikram identified a suitable spot and executed a gentle landing on the lunar surface.
Experts stressed that the last 15 to 20 minutes were pivotal for Chandrayaan-3’s success, as Vikram’s lander softly descended. Indians globally prayed for the successful landing.
Considering the past failure of India’s second lunar mission, where issues arose within the final 20 minutes of landing, ISRO exercised heightened caution this time. The spacecraft faced heightened risk minutes before moon landing, often referred to as the “20 or 17 minutes of terror.” During this phase, Vikram lander autonomously activated its engines at precise times and altitudes.
Astronomer Professor RC Kapoor conveyed, “This historic landing is beyond words. Kudos to ISRO, the nation, and the world. The Southern Moon region now opens to extensive research. India joins the world’s top space agencies.”
ISRO’s Bengaluru headquarters erupted in applause as Vikram commenced its powered descent. Every Indian shared in this historic achievement.
By accessing the moon’s formidable south pole, Indian scientists showcased their technological prowess. Team members, driven by tireless work, have elevated India’s stature globally.
Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s guidance, India forges ahead towards self-reliance, setting records and achieving milestones.
