The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) achieved a significant milestone on Monday as it successfully established a two-way communication link between the Chandrayaan-2 orbiter and the Chandrayaan-3 lander module. In a social media post on ‘X’, ISRO announced the achievement with the message, “‘Welcome, buddy!’ Ch-2 orbiter formally welcomed Ch-3 LM. Two-way communication between the two is established. MOX has now more routes to reach the LM.”
Chandrayaan-3 Mission:
‘Welcome, buddy!’
Ch-2 orbiter formally welcomed Ch-3 LM.Two-way communication between the two is established.
MOX has now more routes to reach the LM.
Update: Live telecast of Landing event begins at 17:20 Hrs. IST.#Chandrayaan_3 #Ch3
— ISRO (@isro) August 21, 2023
Chandrayaan-2, ISRO’s previous lunar mission, was launched in 2019. Although the lander’s soft landing attempt on the Moon’s surface failed, the orbiter continued to orbit the Moon successfully. Now, this orbiter has established a crucial connection with the Chandrayaan-3 lander module, named Vikram, which carries a rover.
The significance of this communication connection lies in the enhancement of communication routes for the upcoming Chandrayaan-3 mission. With the orbiter’s established connection, the lander module is now connected to the ISRO headquarters through multiple channels, ensuring better communication and coordination during the mission.
The Mission Operations Complex (MOX) at ISRO Telemetry, Tracking, and Command Network (ISTRAC) in Bengaluru played a vital role in establishing these communication links. The precise launch and orbital maneuvers of Chandrayaan-2 have extended the orbiter’s mission life to seven years.
ISRO has also provided details about the anticipated landing of the Chandrayaan-3 lander module. According to the space agency, the lander is expected to touch down on the Moon’s surface around 6.04 pm on August 23. The live telecast of the landing event will commence at 5.20 pm and will be available on various platforms including the ISRO website, YouTube channel, Facebook, and DD National TV.
The Chandrayaan-3 mission marks a significant step in India’s lunar exploration journey. The lander module, Vikram, is tasked with landing on the Moon’s south pole, a challenging terrain. Once landed, Vikram will deploy various payloads to conduct scientific experiments and studies. These payloads include instruments to measure temperature, thermal conductivity, seismic activity, plasma density, and more.
The successful establishment of communication between the Chandrayaan-2 orbiter and the Chandrayaan-3 lander brings ISRO closer to achieving its lunar exploration objectives and contributes to the advancement of India’s space exploration endeavors.
