New Delhi: The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has unveiled captivating visuals captured by the Vikram lander of the Chandrayaan 3 mission. Among the shared videos, one stands out for its remarkable view of the Earth juxtaposed against the lunar background.
The released footage comprises two distinct videos, each showcasing unique facets of the Moon-Earth system. Recorded on August 15, the first video, facilitated by the Lander Position Detection Camera (LPDC), offers an intricate look at the Moon’s rugged surface, including craters and formations. This visual is particularly significant as it captures the landing zone where the Vikram lander is scheduled to execute a gentle touchdown on August 23.
The second video, captured by the Lander Imager (LI) Camera-1, captures a mesmerizing sight—the Earth, albeit in a compact form, positioned against the backdrop of the Moon. This visual spectacle was attained shortly after the successful separation of the landing module and propulsion module, a crucial achievement realized by ISRO on the preceding day. The footage additionally presents lunar impact craters on the far side, such as Fabry, Giordano Bruno, and Harkhebi J.
Chandrayaan-3 Mission:
🌖 as captured by the
Lander Position Detection Camera (LPDC)
on August 15, 2023#Chandrayaan_3#Ch3 pic.twitter.com/nGgayU1QUS— ISRO (@isro) August 18, 2023
Notably, this latest set of visuals is part of ISRO’s continuous effort to enhance our understanding of the Moon and its intricacies. Prior to this, the Indian lunar spacecraft captured its maiden images of the lunar surface as it embarked on its journey into lunar orbit.
The Vikram lander, a pivotal component of Chandrayaan 3, incorporates an array of sophisticated sensors to facilitate its mission objectives:
1- Laser Inertial Referencing and Accelerometer Package (LIRAP)
2- Ka-Band Altimeter (KaRA)
3- Lander Position Detection Camera (LPDC)
4- Lander Hazard Detection & Avoidance Camera (LHDAC)
5- Laser Altimeter (LASA)
6- Laser Doppler Velocimeter (LDV)
7- Lander Horizontal Velocity Camera (LHVC)
8- Micro Star sensor
9- Inclinometer & Touchdown sensors
Chandrayaan-3 Mission:
View from the Lander Imager (LI) Camera-1
on August 17, 2023
just after the separation of the Lander Module from the Propulsion Module #Chandrayaan_3 #Ch3 pic.twitter.com/abPIyEn1Ad— ISRO (@isro) August 18, 2023
With its multifaceted sensor suite, the Vikram Lander aims to contribute significantly to the scientific exploration of the Moon, collecting crucial data and insights to deepen our comprehension of lunar characteristics and geology. As the Chandrayaan 3 mission continues to make strides, the shared visuals not only captivate the imagination but also underline ISRO’s unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of space exploration.
These evocative images serve as a testament to human innovation and curiosity, igniting the excitement of both space enthusiasts and the scientific community alike.