Justification for Achievement

1. Technological Advancements: The mission included an orbiter, lander (Vikram), and rover (Pragyan), showcasing India’s capability to handle complex space missions. The orbiter successfully entered lunar orbit and continues to provide valuable data.
2. Scientific Contributions: The orbiter’s instruments are analyzing the lunar exosphere and surface, contributing to our understanding of the Moon’s geology and confirming the presence of water molecules.
3. International Recognition: The mission enhanced India’s global prestige in the space community and inspired interest in space science and technology.
4. Learning and Growth: The mission provided invaluable engineering experience and lessons, particularly from the lander’s failure, which will benefit future missions.

Addressing the Demerits

1. Landing Failure: The primary objective of a soft landing and rover deployment was not achieved, leading to a missed opportunity for direct surface exploration.
2. Budget Considerations: While cost-effective, the partial failure resulted in a less optimal return on investment for the intended surface exploration.

Conclusion

Despite the lander’s failure, Chandrayaan-2 remains a significant achievement due to its technological, scientific, and inspirational impacts, and provides crucial lessons for future missions.