ISRO successfully performs deboost operation on Chandrayaan-3's lander module
The scheduled deboost operation on Chandrayaan-3's lander module (LM) has been successful. Today's operation reduced the orbit of the LM to 113x157km, said the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). The LM will undergo the second deboost operation on August 20. The mission is now less than a week away from landing on the Moon, which is planned for August 23.
Lander Module's health is normal: ISRO
LM's orbit is being reduced via deboost operations
The LM separated from the Propulsion Module (PM) yesterday. While the PM continues in its current orbit, the LM is being lowered via deboost maneuvers. These deboost operations will ultimately bring the LM to an orbit where the perilune (closest point to the Moon) is 30km and the apolune (farthest point from the Moon) is 100km. Lunar landing will be attempted from this orbit.
The mission is gearing up for lunar landing
Among the prime goals of Chandrayaan-3 is to achieve a safe and soft landing on the Moon, which its predecessor Chandrayaan-2 could not do. If successful, India will become the fourth country to accomplish a controlled lunar landing. Once LM docks at its targeted lunar site, the rover will be deployed. Both the lander and rover are carrying scientific payloads to probe the Moon.
Take a look at the pictures captured by Chandrayaan-3
LM has also captured a few craters of the Moon
In addition, ISRO gave another interesting update on the LM. The spacecraft has captured stunning images of the Moon, depicting a few of its craters. Among them is the Giordano Bruno crater, which is one of the youngest large craters on the Moon. The mission also snapped the Harkhebi J crater, which measures about 43km wide.
