Chandrayaan-2 is India’s second lunar exploration mission, developed by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). Launched on July 22, 2019, its primary objectives were to explore the south pole region of the Moon, expand scientific understanding of lunar geology, and demonstrate advanced space technologies.
Key Components:
- Orbiter: The orbiter continues to circle the Moon, sending valuable data back to Earth. It is equipped with high-resolution cameras and scientific instruments to map the lunar surface and study its exosphere and mineral composition.
- Vikram Lander: The lander was intended to make a soft landing near the lunar south pole. Unfortunately, on September 6, 2019, ISRO lost contact with Vikram during its descent. It crash-landed on the Moon’s surface, preventing the deployment of the rover.
- Pragyan Rover: The Pragyan rover was supposed to operate for 14 Earth days, studying the Moon’s surface, especially its soil and minerals. Due to the crash of the Vikram lander, the rover could not be deployed.