Chandrayaan-4 mission gets approval, will return to Earth this time

The Chandrayaan-4 mission on Wednesday received approval from the Union Cabinet, headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This marks another major milestone in India’s efforts towards lunar exploration. Unlike previous missions, Chandrayaan-4 will not only aim for a successful landing on the moon but will also focus on returning to Earth. This mission will demonstrate key technologies that will enable the collection, return and study of lunar samples. It represents a vital step towards India’s long-term goal of landing humans on the moon by 2040.

Chandrayaan-4 to develop return technologies

Chandrayaan-4 follows the successful Chandrayaan-3 mission and aims to further enhance India’s space capabilities. The mission will focus on developing technologies essential for lunar docking, undocking, landing and safe re-entry. Collecting lunar samples will also be a key feature as India moves closer to a full-fledged human mission in the coming decades. The government’s vision includes an Indian space station by 2035, followed by human landings on the moon by 2040.

Mission Details and Industry Involvement

The mission will be completed within 36 months. approvalwith ISRO leading the development and launch. It will involve participation from both industry and academia. A budget of ₹2104.06 crore has been allocated for the development of spacecraft, launch vehicle missions and deep space support.

This includes costs for special tests and design validation. High employment potential is expected in related sectors because of this mission.

Aiming for self-sufficiency in space technologies

Chandrayaan-4 is intended to make India self-reliant in key space technologies and help the nation prepare for future manned missions and lunar exploration. The mission will also include scientific meetings and workshops to engage Indian academia and make significant contributions to the analysis of lunar samples.