ISRO has undertaken a distinctive experiment by relocating the Chandrayaan-3 Propulsion Module (PM) from its lunar orbit to an Earth orbit, as confirmed by the space agency. Launched on July 14, 2023, aboard the LVM3-M4 vehicle, the primary goal of Chandrayaan-3 was to achieve a soft landing in the lunar south polar region, conducting experiments with the ‘Vikram’ lander and the ‘Pragyan’ rover. Vikram’s historic lunar touchdown occurred on August 23, after which Pragyan was deployed, meeting the mission’s objectives.
ISRO stated that the PM’s principal objective was to transport the lander module from the Geostationary Transfer Orbit (GTO) to the final lunar polar circular orbit, successfully separating the lander. After separation, the SHAPE payload in the PM was activated, with the initial plan for a three-month operation during the PM’s mission life. However, due to optimal maneuvers and precise orbit injection, over 100 kg of fuel remained after a month in lunar orbit.
To capitalize on the surplus fuel, ISRO decided to reposition the PM to Earth orbit for additional information and to demonstrate mission operation strategies. The operation, conducted with careful collision avoidance planning, involved maneuvers and fly-bys, resulting in the PM orbiting Earth. As of November 22, the PM’s orbit period is nearly 13 days, with SHAPE payload operations ongoing. ISRO highlighted the successful outcomes of the return maneuvers, including trajectory planning, software module development, gravity-assisted fly-bys, and controlled end-of-life maneuvers to prevent debris creation.
Post Your Comments