Chandrayaan-3’s Lunar Landing Site Age

India’s Chandrayaan-3 mission marked a historic achievement on August 23, 2023, as it became the first spacecraft to successfully land on the moon’s south pole. Recent studies by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) have revealed that the age of the landing site, known as Shiv Shakti, is approximately 3.7 billion years. This period aligns with the emergence of primitive microbial life on Earth.

Chandrayaan-3 Mission

Chandrayaan-3 is India’s third lunar exploration mission. It comprises a lander named Vikram and a rover named Pragyan. The mission aims to explore the lunar surface and gather data about its composition, geology, and potential resources. The successful landing has opened new avenues for lunar research.

Age Estimation Techniques

ISRO scientists conducted a morphological and topographic analysis of the landing site. They utilised advanced imaging techniques, including data from the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter. By studying crater distributions and rock fragments, researchers estimated the age of the landing site using 25 craters between 500 and 1,150 metres in diameter.

Geological Features

The Shiv Shakti landing site is surrounded by geological features. It is enclosed by three large impact craters – Manzinus, Boguslawsky, and Schomberger. These craters vary in age and characteristics, influencing the geology of the surrounding area. For instance, Manzinus is about 3.9 billion years old, while Boguslawsky is approximately 4 billion years old.

Impact of Crater Ejecta

The study marks the role of secondary craters in shaping the terrain. The ejecta from these craters has contributed to the geological features observed at the landing site. The analysis indicates that the region has undergone changes due to micro-meteorite bombardments and thermal excursions over millions of years.

Rock Distribution Analysis

ISRO scientists focused on the distribution of rock samples in the landing area. They noted a higher concentration of rocks near a morphologically fresh crater located about 14 km south of the landing site. This fresh crater exhibited less space weathering, indicating it is a recent geological feature.

Significance of Findings

The findings from the Chandrayaan-3 mission provide vital information about the moon’s geological history. The age estimation of 3.7 billion years contributes to understanding the timeline of lunar evolution. The data also aids in comprehending the processes that shaped the moon’s surface.

Future Implications

The success of Chandrayaan-3 paves the way for future lunar missions. It enhances India’s position in space exploration and contributes to global knowledge about the moon. The data collected may assist in future exploration initiatives aimed at utilising lunar resources.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Discuss the significance of the Chandrayaan-3 mission in enhancing India’s space exploration capabilities.
2. Critically examine the geological features of the moon and their implications for lunar exploration.
3. Explain the methods used for age estimation of lunar surfaces and their relevance in planetary science.
4. With suitable examples, discuss the impact of micro-meteorite bombardments on lunar geological formations.

Answer Hints:

1. Discuss the significance of the Chandrayaan-3 mission in enhancing India’s space exploration capabilities.

1. Chandrayaan-3 represents India’s third lunar mission, showcasing advancements in technology and research.
2. The successful soft landing on the moon’s south pole positions India as a leader in lunar exploration.
3. It enhances ISRO’s credibility and capabilities in conducting complex space missions.
4. The mission contributes valuable data for global lunar research, encouraging international collaborations.
5. Chandrayaan-3 lays the groundwork for future missions and potential resource utilization on the moon.

2. Critically examine the geological features of the moon and their implications for lunar exploration.

1. The moon’s surface features include impact craters, regolith, and volcanic formations, revealing its geological history.
2. Large impact craters like Manzinus and Boguslawsky shape the terrain and influence landing site selection.
3. About geological features aids in identifying potential resources for future lunar missions.
4. Variations in terrain types provide vital information about the moon’s evolution and past volcanic activity.
5. Geological mapping is essential for safe navigation and planning of exploration activities on the moon.

3. Explain the methods used for age estimation of lunar surfaces and their relevance in planetary science.

1. Age estimation methods include morphological analysis and crater counting techniques to assess surface features.
2. ISRO utilized data from the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter to analyze crater distributions and rock sizes.
3. Crater size and density provide vital information about the surface’s geological age and history of impacts.
4. These methods are crucial for understanding planetary evolution and comparing lunar geology with other celestial bodies.
5. Accurate age estimates inform future exploration strategies and the understanding of planetary processes.

4. With suitable examples, discuss the impact of micro-meteorite bombardments on lunar geological formations.

1. Micro-meteorite bombardments continuously reshape the lunar surface, creating regolith and altering rock formations.
2. For instance, the fragmentation of older rocks into smaller particles contributes to the regolith layer.
3. Impact events can lead to the formation of secondary craters, as seen around the Shiv Shakti landing site.
4. Over billions of years, these bombardments have influenced the preservation of geological features.
5. About these impacts is vital for assessing the moon’s geological history and planning future missions.