The mission will utilize two rockets to carry different modules into space. This includes the Ascender, Descender, Propulsion, Transfer, and Re-entry modules.
Unlike previous missions, Chandrayaan-4 will be assembled in space. The modules will be assembled in space, demonstrating advanced docking and robotic capabilities. After assembly, the spacecraft will proceed with its mission objectives, including traveling to the Moon, landing, collecting samples, and returning to Earth.
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| Stacks in Chandrayaan-4, which comprises the Ascender and Descender Modules |
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| Stacks in Chandrayaan-4, which comprises the Transfer, Re-entry and Propulsion Modules |
To achieve this, the process involves launching the mission in two parts and then performing a complex docking maneuver in Earth's orbit to integrate the modules into a single spacecraft.
Once the spacecraft reaches the Moon, the Descender module will perform a controlled soft landing. A robotic arm will then collect 2 to 3 kg of lunar soil a.k.a Moondust and subsurface material. The collected Moondust will be stored in the Ascender module, which will lift off from the Moon and dock with the Transfer and Re-entry modules for the journey back to Earth.
This mission not only aims to bring back lunar samples but also demonstrates advanced space technologies, setting a significant milestone for India's space exploration efforts.
Chandrayaan-4 aims to study the composition and mineralogy of the lunar surface, probe the subsurface for water ice and other volatiles, and analyze the returned samples for insights into the Moon’s geology and history.
This mission not only aims to enhance our understanding of the Moon but also showcases India’s growing capabilities in space exploration.
Several notable space missions have utilized in-space assembly techniques to achieve their objectives. International Space Station (ISS) is one of the most prominent examples of in-space assembly. It was constructed over multiple missions, with various modules and components launched separately and assembled in orbit by astronauts and robotic systems.
Besides, part of NASA’s Artemis program, the Lunar Gateway will be a space station orbiting the Moon. It will be assembled in space from multiple modules launched separately, providing a staging point for lunar exploration.
NASA’s In-Space Assembled Telescope (iSAT) project involves assembling a large aperture telescope in space, which will provide unprecedented spatial resolution and spectral coverage for astrophysics, planetary, and Earth science.
India’s Chandrayaan-4 mission, planned for lunar sample return from the Southern polar region is of utmost significance. This is more so after India’s systematic exploration of the Moon through orbiter, lander and rover. Lunar surface exploration missions followed by sample return will be the next major step in lunar exploration for India, and will result in important contributions in understanding the Earth-Moon system.
The total cost of the mission is estimated at 2104.06 Crore Indian Rupees, covering spacecraft development, two LVM3 launches, International network support, and various tests. Chandrayaan-4 will pave the way for India's future manned missions, lunar sample return, and scientific analysis.
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