The Chandrayaan-3 mission, aimed at conducting experiments and uncovering precious minerals on the moon’s surface, has achieved a significant breakthrough. The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has revealed that the Pragyan Rover, an integral part of the mission, has successfully detected traces of various elements, including Oxygen and Sulphur, near the lunar south pole.
Confirmation through LIBS:
The Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscope (LIBS) instrument, which is equipped on the Pragyan Rover, has provided unequivocal evidence of the presence of Sulphur on the lunar surface. This accomplishment marks the first-ever in-situ measurements of this element in the moon’s vicinity. Additionally, the LIBS instrument has identified the presence of other elements such as Aluminium (Al), Calcium (Ca), Iron (Fe), Chromium (Cr), Titanium (Ti), Manganese (Mn), Silicon (Si), and Oxygen (O), as anticipated. The ongoing investigation includes a search for Hydrogen (H).
Cutting-Edge Technology:
The LIBS instrument, responsible for this breakthrough, was developed at the Laboratory for Electro-Optics Systems (LEOS) in Bengaluru. Its advanced capabilities and precise measurements have enabled the Pragyan Rover to make these significant detections on the moon’s surface.
Pragyan’s Objectives:
The Pragyan Rover is actively engaged in conducting experiments, a mission that will continue in the coming days. Originally designed for a single lunar day, equivalent to 14 Earth days, ISRO is optimistic that the rover’s activities will extend beyond this period. Powered by solar energy, the rover and lander’s instruments operate as long as the Sun shines on the moon’s surface. Following this, the site experiences a lunar night lasting 14 Earth days.
Hopes Beyond Lunar Night:
While survival during the lunar night remains a challenge due to extreme conditions, ISRO’s chief S Somnath has expressed optimism. If the rover and systems manage to function during this phase, it would be a significant accomplishment. Their ability to withstand the harsh lunar environment and continue operations would be a testament to their resilience and engineering excellence.
The successful detection of elements like Oxygen and Sulphur by the Pragyan Rover is a noteworthy step forward in humanity’s exploration of the moon. It demonstrates India’s scientific prowess and commitment to advancing space research and exploration. As the mission continues, more insights into the moon’s composition and mysteries are expected to emerge, further enriching our understanding of Earth’s celestial neighbor.
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