India's space agency, the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO), has made an exciting announcement regarding the launch of India's third moon mission, Chandrayaan-3. The highly anticipated mission is now officially scheduled for July 14, 2023, at 2:35 pm IST from SDSC, Sriharikota.


Chandrayaan Space Craft By ISRO
Stacked Spacecraft by ISRO


The mission, designated as LVM3-M4/Chandrayaan-3, will be conducted using the reliable LVM3 rocket. With a spacecraft weight of approximately 3,900 kg, the mission is expected to utilize most of the carrying capacity of the LVM3 rocket.


Earlier reports had speculated a launch date of July 13, but the ISRO has clarified the final date to be July 14. Interestingly, since 1993, ISRO has abstained from launching rockets on the 13th of any month, which has led to speculations about the agency avoiding the date for superstitious reasons. However, the ISRO has not officially confirmed any connection between the date selection and superstitions, leaving the matter open to interpretation.


Regarding the absence of the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV-C13), an ISRO official has stated that no rocket with that number is designated, without providing further details. It remains unclear whether this is a misinterpretation or if there were specific reasons behind the statement.


Chandrayaan-3, the successor to the Chandrayaan-2 mission, comprises an orbiter (or propulsion module) weighing 2,148 kg, a lander named Vikram, and a rover called Pragyan. The primary objective of the mission is to successfully land the Vikram lander on the lunar surface, followed by the deployment of the Pragyan rover for conducting a series of scientific experiments.


Chandrayaan-2 was initially planned for launch on July 15, 2019, but it was postponed to July 22, 2019, due to technical issues. With the lessons learned from Chandrayaan-2, ISRO is determined to ensure the success of Chandrayaan-3 and achieve its scientific goals.


The upcoming Chandrayaan-3 mission has generated great enthusiasm and expectation both within India and around the world. If successful, it will mark another significant milestone for India's space exploration program, showcasing the nation's growing prowess in the field of lunar exploration.


As the countdown begins for the launch of Chandrayaan-3, space enthusiasts and scientists eagerly await the historic moment when India's latest lunar mission sets its course towards the Moon. All eyes will be on ISRO as they strive to accomplish another remarkable feat in their quest to unravel the mysteries of the lunar surface.