India Achieves Historic Milestone: First Successful Spacecraft Landing at Moon’s Southern Pole

While marking the fourth successful lunar landing globally, India stands out as the pioneer to achieve a spacecraft touchdown on the lesser-explored southern pole of the moon.

India Achieves Historic Milestone: First Successful Spacecraft Landing at Moon’s Southern Pole

Chandrayaan-3, in a groundbreaking feat, has become the inaugural spacecraft to touch down on the moon’s southern pole, an area believed to house significant water ice-laden craters. The successful landing, accomplished six weeks after its launch from Andhra Pradesh’s spaceport, was met with resounding cheers and applause from the mission control center at Satish Dhawan Space Centre.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi joined a conference call at the space center, waving the Indian flag in celebration as the spacecraft made its touchdown. In an inspiring address to the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), he declared, “This is the heartbeat of 1.4 billion people. This is the new India, the new beginning, the new thinking of new endeavors.”

He further emphasized the global significance of India’s triumph, stating, “India’s successful moon mission is not just India’s alone. We can all aspire for the moon and beyond.” Looking ahead, he revealed India’s plans for a future human flight mission to the moon.

As the news of success spread, thousands of people across India eagerly awaited the mission’s outcome in various settings, including offices, shops, homes, and restaurants.

What’s Next?

With the successful landing, Chandrayaan-3’s operational phase will span two weeks, during which it will conduct a series of experiments to ascertain the moon’s surface mineral composition. A pivotal role in this endeavor will be played by a rover, deployed by the lander that stands at a height of two meters. Researchers hold a specific interest in water ice, considering its potential applications for fuel, oxygen, and drinking water. The mission’s outcomes could pave the way for establishing a permanent base on the moon.

While the landing is indeed a major achievement, the scientists in the control room eagerly await data confirmation from the spacecraft’s operations. The focus is on ensuring that all systems are functioning as intended and that the mission’s objectives are being met. The successful landing signifies a monumental accomplishment in India’s space exploration journey.