The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is gearing up for the next chapter of its lunar exploration. After the successful Chandrayaan-3 mission, the agency has completed the designs for its upcoming missions, Chandrayaan-4 and Chandrayaan-5, and is currently seeking government approval.
Chandrayaan-4 aims to achieve significant milestones, including the return of moon rocks and soil to Earth. It will also demonstrate new technologies like making a soft landing on lunar soil and launching a spacecraft from the moon, along with conducting space docking experiments.
ISRO Chairman S. Somanath announced these plans during an event held by the All India Council for Technical Education and the Indian Space Association. He emphasized the focus on lunar missions, stating, "Chandrayaan-3 is over; now, we are moving forward with the designs for Chandrayaan-4 and Chandrayaan-5, eagerly awaiting governmental approval."
The targeted launch for the Chandrayaan-4 mission is set for 2028, marking India's continued commitment to lunar exploration. The agency also plans to launch 70 additional satellites over the next five years to cater to various governmental needs.
These 70 satellites will consist of multiple types including those for the NAVIC regional navigation system, INSAT 4D for weather monitoring, and high-resolution imaging satellites like Cartosat. Beyond these functions, ISRO is also working on the Oceansat series and technology demonstration satellites to showcase advancements such as electric propulsion systems.
Somanath confirmed plans for developing data relay satellites as part of the upcoming Gaganyaan mission. These satellites will aid communication and data transfer for future space operations, underlining ISRO's expansive ambitions.
The Gaganyaan mission, India’s first human spaceflight initiative, is also on track with significant milestones achieved. The first unmanned test is set for December this year, with all rocket stages having already arrived at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre situated at Sriharikota.
With all the components for the Crew Module and service module undergoing integration at various centers, the groundwork for the upcoming launches is being laid methodically. Somanath mentioned, "The Crew Escape system has reached Sriharikota, and we expect final testing and integration to occur within the next month or so."
Two qualified candidates, referred to as ‘Gaganyatris,’ are currently undergoing training for future missions, including possible travel to the International Space Station (ISS). They received training last week and are set to train more extensively over the next few months.
Looking beyond lunar missions, ISRO has ambitious plans for the Bharatiya Antariksha Station, which will be India’s answer to international space stations. This facility is expected to feature five modules, and the launch of the first module is poised for 2028.
Efforts to send Indian astronauts to the moon are also underway, with ambitions set for future lunar visits. The timeline, as outlined by the Prime Minister, aims for progress to be evident by 2040.
Overall, these developments showcase India’s increasing capabilities and aspirations in space. Somanath's comments reflect ISRO's strategic focus as they prepare for significant satellite launches and ground-breaking explorations of the lunar surface.
While the space community eagerly anticipates the upcoming missions, some projects like the planned Venus mission are on hold as ISRO re-evaluates priorities. The excitement surrounding India’s next steps on the lunar front and potential futures for human spaceflight remains palpable.
