India has not participated in any human space missions, despite its notable achievements in unmanned space missions such as the Chandrayaan and Mars Orbitter probes. What are the primary technological and logistical barriers to the launch of a manned space ...
Model Answer Introduction Chandrayaan-3, launched by ISRO in 2023, represents India's third lunar mission. Unlike its predecessors, this mission includes a lander and a rover but no orbiter. The primary objective is to achieve a soft landing on the Moon's surface, a goal not accomplished in earlierRead more
Model Answer
Introduction
Chandrayaan-3, launched by ISRO in 2023, represents India’s third lunar mission. Unlike its predecessors, this mission includes a lander and a rover but no orbiter. The primary objective is to achieve a soft landing on the Moon’s surface, a goal not accomplished in earlier missions.
Main Task of Chandrayaan-3
Soft Landing
The mission’s core task is to execute a successful soft landing on the lunar surface. Chandrayaan-1 was solely an orbiter, while Chandrayaan-2 attempted a soft landing but failed due to a last-minute glitch. The successful landing of Chandrayaan-3 enables extensive lunar research and sample collection.
Lunar Research and Material Extraction
The successful landing allows scientists to analyze the Moon’s surface in detail, addressing limitations from previous missions. For instance, while Chandrayaan-1 identified water molecules, it couldn’t analyze samples. Chandrayaan-3 aims to collect lunar soil samples, a task that Chandrayaan-2 was unable to carry out due to its failed landing attempt.
Countries that Have Achieved Soft Landing
- USA: The Apollo 11 mission in 1969 achieved not just a soft landing but also human presence on the Moon (Source: NASA).
- Russia: Luna 9 marked the first successful soft landing in 1966, transmitting photographs back to Earth (Source: Soviet Space Program).
- China: Chang’e 3 achieved a soft landing in 2013, followed by Chang’e 4 landing on the far side of the Moon in 2019 (Source: China National Space Administration).
Subsystems in Chandrayaan-3
Vikram Lander
The Vikram lander is equipped with several advanced subsystems, including:
- Laser Inertial Referencing and Accelerometer Package (LIRAP)
- Ka-Band Altimeter (KaRA)
- Lander Hazard Detection & Avoidance Camera (LHDAC)
These systems work together to ensure a controlled descent and landing.
Pragyan Rover
The Pragyan rover is designed for surface exploration, conducting experiments and relaying data back to Earth.
Communication and Data Collection
The Deep Space Network ensures communication between the spacecraft and ground control, critical for mission success.
Role of the Virtual Launch Control Centre (VLCC)
The VLCC at Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre employs advanced technology to support the mission’s launch:
- Real-time Telemetry: Monitors all spacecraft subsystems during launch, ensuring functionality.
- Coordination: Synchronizes efforts across multiple systems and departments for a smooth launch.
- Anomaly Detection: Identifies unexpected conditions during launch, providing data for quick decision-making.
- Resource Management: Enables experts to collaborate virtually, addressing complex challenges efficiently.
- Technological Advancements: Utilizes machine learning for real-time predictions and solutions, contributing significantly to the launch’s success.
Conclusion
The success of Chandrayaan-3 marks a significant milestone for India in space exploration, paving the way for future missions and enhancing India’s status in the global space community.
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Model Answer Introduction India has achieved remarkable success in unmanned space missions, exemplified by the Mars Orbiter Mission (MOM) and Chandrayaan. However, the country has yet to embark on a manned space mission. The primary obstacles to launching such missions are multifaceted, encompassingRead more
Model Answer
Introduction
India has achieved remarkable success in unmanned space missions, exemplified by the Mars Orbiter Mission (MOM) and Chandrayaan. However, the country has yet to embark on a manned space mission. The primary obstacles to launching such missions are multifaceted, encompassing both technological and logistical challenges.
Technological Challenges
Manned missions demand sophisticated technology beyond what is needed for unmanned missions. For instance, developing a safe and reliable crew module capable of supporting human life in space is a complex task that involves extensive research and development.
Reliable launch systems are crucial for crew safety, including mechanisms to abort missions if necessary. Additionally, effective recovery systems must ensure astronauts return to Earth safely, as the return journey can often be more perilous than the launch.
Sustaining human life in space poses significant challenges, such as managing zero gravity, radiation exposure, and temperature fluctuations. Robust life support systems are essential to provide oxygen, food, waste management, and address psychological factors affecting the crew.
Comprehensive astronaut training is vital. This includes mastering piloting skills, managing emergencies, and coping with extended periods in confined spaces.
Logistical and Financial Aspects
Manned missions are substantially more expensive than unmanned ones, necessitating significant financial investments. India has allocated Rs. 10,000 crore for the Gaganyaan mission, reflecting its financial commitment (Source: Government of India).
Establishing the necessary infrastructure for manned missions involves extensive logistical planning. This includes creating facilities for training, mission control, and vehicle assembly.
India’s Futuristic Approach
The Gaganyaan mission aims to send a three-member crew to space, marking a pivotal step in India’s manned space exploration. The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is enhancing technology through the development of a heavy-lift launch vehicle and safety systems. Moreover, efforts to encourage private sector participation through IN-SPACe are expected to strengthen the space ecosystem.
Conclusion
Despite the significant challenges, India is making substantial progress towards its first manned mission, Gaganyaan, which could herald a new era in the country’s space exploration capabilities.
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