Luna-25 will not affect Chandrayaan: Russian space agency
Context
The Chandrayaan-3 mission from India, which was launched on July 14, 2023, would not be hampered by the Luna-25, according to the Russian space agency Roscosmos, which launched the spacecraft on Friday. This is because the two missions will land in different locations on the moon, and there will be ample room for everyone.
What is Luna-25?
- Luna 25 is a lunar lander mission conducted by the Russian space agency Roscosmos.
- Its main goal is to investigate the lunar surface near the lunar south pole, concentrating on the Boguslavsky crater. Its name was changed from Luna-Glob lander to Luna 25 to maintain historical continuity with the Soviet Luna program dating back to the 1970s.
- Although Luna 25 is currently just focused on the lander component, it was originally meant to be a part of the larger Luna-Glob lunar exploration mission.
What are the missions of the Luna-25?
- Lunar Surface Exploration: Luna 25’s mission is to examine the lunar surface, with a focus on the area around the Boguslavsky crater near the lunar south pole. Due to its potential for water ice deposits and the fact that it is still mostly undiscovered, this region is of interest.
- Landing Technology Demonstration: One of the main objectives of Luna 25 is to test and demonstrate the technology needed for a gentle landing on the lunar surface. Future lunar missions, like crewed trips and the construction of lunar homes, will depend on this.
- Scientific Research: Luna 25 is equipped with equipment for conducting research into the geology and environment of the moon. The composition, structure, and history of the moon may be better understood with the aid of these tools.
- Soil Sample Collection: Collecting soil samples from the lunar surface is made possible by a robotic arm that is part of the mission. These samples might reveal details on the geological processes, past, and possible resources of the moon.
- Possible Drilling Operations: Luna 25 is outfitted with prospective drilling equipment that would make it possible to gather deeper samples of lunar regolith. This might provide a more thorough knowledge of the moon’s interior.
- Legacy of the Luna Program Continued: By changing Luna 25’s name from Luna-Glob, the historical Luna program, which dates back to the Soviet Union’s lunar exploration endeavours in the 1970s, is emphasized.
How can the lunar missions help both countries?
- Scientific Contributions:
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- Even though both missions are going to the Moon, their scientific goals may be different. The Chandrayaan-3 mission from India may contain specialized equipment or experiments that offer the scientific community new information and insights.
- Different landing sites could offer various geological and mineralogical data that help with a thorough understanding of the Moon’s origin and history.
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- Technological advancements:
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- Although both missions may have identical objectives, they may make use of various technologies, systems, or strategies. It is still possible to improve India’s engineering and technology capabilities through the development, testing, and effective application of these technologies.
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- International Cooperation:
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- Knowledge sharing, technology transfer, and cooperative research can all result from cooperation and collaboration with other space agencies, such as Roscosmos.
- Such collaborations can aid India in growing its network across the space world and build long-lasting ties that might go beyond lunar exploration.
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- Demonstration of Capabilities
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- India’s expertise in engineering, project management, and space exploration is demonstrated by a successful lunar expedition.
- India’s standing in the international space sector is enhanced by its capacity to carry out difficult missions, potentially luring alliances and business prospects.
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- International Initiatives Contributions:
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- When India and Russia work together on initiatives like the International Scientific Lunar Station (ILRS), India’s participation can help to forward the overall objectives of these projects, improving its standing internationally.
