Chandrayaan-3's Propulsion Module Shift from Moon to Earth Orbit: ISRO Declares Earth Return

The Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) has successfully shifted Chandrayaan-3's Propulsion Module (PM) from the Moon's orbit to Earth's. The maneuver, initiated in October, ensures the module's safe return, avoiding collisions with space debris or the Moon's surface. ISRO continues operating its scientific payload, achieving successful Earth observations.

Image Source -www.thehindu.com

ISRO recently revealed a monumental achievement in space exploration. The Propulsion Module (PM) of Chandrayaan-3, previously orbiting the Moon, has been strategically relocated to Earth's orbit, as confirmed by the Indian Space Research Organization. This unique experiment, akin to the Vikram Lander's hop experiment, marks a significant advancement in space navigation.

Chandrayaan-3, launched with a primary objective to demonstrate a lunar south polar landing and conduct experiments using the Vikram and Pragyaan instruments, commenced its mission on July 14, 2023. The historic touchdown of the Vikram Lander on the Moon on August 23rd led to the subsequent deployment of the Pragyaan rover.

Following meticulous operations and achievement of mission goals, the PM's primary objective was to transport the Lander module to the final lunar polar circular orbit and separate it. Post-separation, the SHAPE payload, meant for Earth observation, was activated. Initially planned to operate for three months during the PM's mission life, the spacecraft ended up retaining over 100 kg of fuel after a month in lunar orbit.

To ensure the safe continuation of Earth observations, the PM was repositioned to a suitable Earth orbit, meticulously planned to prevent collisions with the Moon or Earth's GEO belt. The complex maneuver, starting with adjustments in orbit altitude on October 9, 2023, and a subsequent Trans-Earth injection maneuver on October 13, facilitated the module's Earth-bound trajectory.

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The successful navigation through Moon fly-bys and the PM's current orbit around Earth, characterized by varying altitudes and safe distances from operational Earth-orbiting satellites, demonstrates ISRO's precision in space missions. The ongoing operation of the SHAPE payload, especially during a solar eclipse, showcases ISRO's commitment to comprehensive scientific endeavors.

Furthermore, ISRO's flight dynamics team's development of sophisticated analysis tools ensures future mission preparedness, validating trajectory planning and execution techniques. These remarkable achievements mark a significant milestone in India's space exploration endeavors, showcasing ISRO's expertise in interplanetary navigation and scientific exploration.