ISRO to launch Chandrayaan-4 to bring back samples from Moon in 4 yrs: Somanath
- ISRO's chairperson, while elaborating ISRO’s Vision 2047, stated that ISRO has planned to launch Chandrayaan-4 to bring back samples from the Moon in four years.
Bharatiya Antariksh Station and Vision 2047
- ISRO also plans to launch the first module of India's space station, by 2028.
- Bharatiya Antariksh Station will conduct experiments using robots.
- The Prime Minister has set ambitious goals for ISRO, urging the establishment of a space station by 2035 and sending a man to the Moon by 2040.
SPADEX Experiment
- In the next three to four months, ISRO will launch the SPADEX experiment, demonstrating autonomous docking capability.
- Docking is a process where two spacecrafts are aligned in a precise orbit and joined together.
- Two satellites connected to each other will separate, travel and then autonomously dock back together, showcasing a crucial technology for sustained human spaceflight.
Technological Developments for Sustained Human Spaceflight
- ISRO is actively working on developing technologies for sustained human presence in space.
- This includes a robotic arm for sample collection, mechanisms for docking in various orbits, and the ability to re-enter Earth's atmosphere without burning up.
- These technologies will be crucial for the Gaganyaan mission, which will send astronauts to low Earth orbit.
Inflatable Habitat Module and Collaborations
- ISRO is developing an inflatable habitat module for astronauts to walk around and conduct experiments.
- It is also in discussions with NASA and the European Space Agency to create a common interface between the Indian space station and those of other countries.
- This collaboration would enable joint work and the possibility of docking with the International Space Station (ISS).
Next Generation Launch Vehicle (NGLV)
- To support the space station initiative, ISRO is working on designing the Next Generation Launch Vehicle (NGLV) with a capacity to carry 16 to 25 T to low Earth orbit.
- This marks a significant step toward achieving the ambitious goals set by ISRO for future space exploration.
Prelims Takeaway
- SPADEX Experiment
- Bharatiya Antariksh Station
- Chandrayaan-4