Chandrayaan 3 lands on Moon: What is Pragyan Rover’s mission ahead?

The Pragyan Rover, which means "wisdom" in Sanskrit, is currently poised on the ramp of the Vikram Lander, ready to embark on a lunar adventure that promises to unlock essential data about the moon's atmosphere and composition. Both the lander and rover have a lifespan of one lunar day, equivalent to 14 days on Earth, during which they will conduct a myriad of scientific experiments.

While the Vikram Lander will delve into the lunar environment, studying temperature variations and seismic activity, among other objectives, the Pragyan Rover has a unique dual role. Weighing 26 kilograms, this six-wheeled robotic explorer is equipped with two critical payloads: the Alpha Particle X-Ray Spectrometer (APXS) and the Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscope (LIBS).

The LIBS payload will analyze the lunar soil and rocks near the landing site to determine the elemental composition of elements like magnesium and aluminum. Meanwhile, the APXS will focus on identifying the elemental composition of the lunar surface itself.

However, the Pragyan Rover's mission goes beyond scientific exploration. Symbolism plays a significant role, too. As it traverses the moon's surface, the rover will leave indelible imprints of the ISRO logo and India's national anthem, which features the Lion Capital of Ashoka at Sarnath. This symbolic act serves as a testament to India's presence on the lunar landscape, leaving an indomitable mark on the moon.

The significance of this achievement cannot be understated. India has made history by becoming the first nation to successfully reach the lunar south pole, four years after the unfortunate failure of Chandrayaan 2's soft landing attempt in September 2019.

Chandrayaan 3, with its mission to develop and demonstrate new technologies for interplanetary missions, boasts an indigenous propulsion module, lander module, and rover. It showcases India's growing prowess in space exploration and reaffirms its commitment to expanding the boundaries of human knowledge.

As the Vikram Lander and Pragyan Rover begin their exploration of the lunar surface, the world watches in awe and anticipation. With every discovery, they inch closer to unraveling the mysteries of the moon and, in doing so, elevate India's status in the realm of space exploration.