The precise launch date of the Chandrayaan-3 mission by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) will be announced soon. The launch window is expected to open during the second week of July. ISRO has a reputation for executing challenging missions and is currently in the final stages of preparing for this ambitious lunar mission.
Chandrayaan-3 follows the Chandrayaan-2 mission, which faced a crash-landing on the Moon's surface four years ago. Currently, the integration of Chandrayaan-3 with the GSLV MK-III rocket is underway, but the official launch date is yet to be disclosed.
However, ISRO chief S Somnath has indicated that the mission's lift-off is planned between July 12 and July 19, adhering to the expected launch window.
Once Chandrayaan-3 reaches the Moon and successfully lands, the mission's endurance in the challenging, airless lunar environment becomes a question.
The lander and rover of Chandrayaan-3 have been designed to operate for approximately 14 Earth days, which corresponds to a single lunar daylight period.
This duration is similar to the mission profile of Chandrayaan-2 before it encountered an incident on the far side of the Moon. While Chandrayaan-3 is designed for a 14-day duration, it has the potential to surpass this timeframe.
ISRO has established a reputation for executing missions with extended operational lifespans, high reliability, and significant scientific achievements. The Chandrayaan-1 mission, launched in 2008, operated successfully for 312 days, contributing to the discovery of water on the Moon.
The Mars Orbiter Mission (Mangalyaan), launched in 2013, exceeded its initial one-year operational lifespan and remained functional for over six years.
Similar expectations of durability and success are held for the Chandrayaan-3 mission. ISRO's track record and confidence in their capabilities indicate a strong belief in the mission's successful landing on the Moon's surface.
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