India’s Chandrayaan-3 lunar mission is set to achieve a secure landing with its revamped Vikram lander, equipped with a built-in “salvage mode” to ensure success even under challenging circumstances, according to aerospace expert Professor Radhakant Padhi. Following the lessons learned from the Chandrayaan-2 setback, the new design prioritizes robustness and adaptability. Padhi, closely involved with both Chandrayaan-2 and Chandrayaan-3, highlighted that the new approach aims for successful landings regardless of unforeseen challenges.
The Indian Institute of Science’s aerospace department played a pivotal role in the mission’s development, contributing to the mission’s improved design. With two onboard computers, the Vikram lander boasts enhanced reliability and hazard detection capabilities, which enable it to select secure landing sites. Padhi assured that Chandrayaan-3 has been subjected to comprehensive stress testing and preparations for potential unknowns.
The mission aims to continue India’s space exploration successes by achieving a successful landing on the Moon’s south polar region at 6:04 pm on Wednesday. This feat, if accomplished, would place India among an elite group of nations, including the United States, Russia, and China, that have achieved similar lunar milestones. The new design philosophy and thorough testing instill confidence in Chandrayaan-3’s ability to navigate lunar challenges and make a successful touchdown on the lunar surface.