ISRO Successfully Returns Chandrayaan-3 Propulsion Module to Earth’s Orbit
In a significant demonstration of India’s space capabilities, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has successfully brought back the Chandrayaan-3 Propulsion Module (PM) to Earth’s orbit after surpassing its lunar mission objectives.
The Chandrayaan-3 mission, launched on July 14, 2023, was initially intended to showcase a soft landing near the lunar south polar region and conduct experiments using the Vikram Lander and Pragyaan rover. However, after the successful lunar hop by the Vikram Lander, ISRO turned its attention to the surplus fuel of the PM.
Utilizing innovative mission strategies, ISRO decided to extend the PM’s operational life and leverage its remaining fuel for future lunar missions. After careful planning and maneuvering, the PM’s trajectory was adjusted to transition from lunar orbit to Earth orbit, avoiding potential collisions with the Moon or Earth’s GEO belt.
“The return maneuvers, initiated in October 2023, involved raising the apolune altitude and performing a Trans-Earth Injection (TEI) maneuver. The PM completed four Moon flybys before departing the Moon’s Sphere of Influence (SOI) on November 10,” ISRO said.
Currently, the PM orbits Earth, with no threats to operational satellites based on current orbit predictions. The payload onboard the PM, designed for Earth observation, continues to operate as planned.
ISRO’s flight dynamics team has developed a sophisticated analysis tool for this operation, demonstrating ISRO’s commitment to advancing space exploration capabilities.
“The successful repositioning of the PM not only extends its mission life but also contributes valuable insights and capabilities for future lunar missions,” ISRO said.
This achievement once again highlights India’s growing prowess in space exploration and reinforces the country’s position as a key player in the global space community.