Chandrayaan-3, India's ambitious lunar research mission, has entered a crucial stage of orbit circularization in preparation for its Moon landing. For the uninitiated, the orbit circularization phase is a transitional procedure designed to modify the spacecraft's orbital route and velocity in order to achieve a nearly circular course around the Moon. It is essential for providing a slow ascent to the lunar surface, ensuring the lander lands gently, and reducing the possibility of damage, Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) said.
“Precise maneuvre performed today has achieved a near-circular orbit of 150 km x 177 km. The next operation is planned for August 16, 2023, around 8.30 hrs. IST," ISRO posted on X platform.
The mission's next operation is scheduled for August 16, when it will enter a 100 km circular lunar orbit. After August 16, when the Chandrayaan-3 completes the Moon-bound maneuvers, it will head to the next crucial stage.
On August 17, the lander (Vikram) and rover (Pragyan), which make up the landing module, will detach from the propulsion module. After that, the lander will undergo de-boost manoeuvres to prepare for lunar landing. On August 23, Chandrayaan-3 is anticipated to touch down on the moon.
Last week, ISRO Chairman S Somnath had said the most critical part of the landing is the process of bringing the velocity of the lander from 30 km height to the final landing, and that the ability to transfer the spacecraft from horizontal to vertical direction is the "trick we have to play" here.