The crash of Russia’s Luna-25 craft on the moon’s south pole highlights the challenge of successful landings in this region. India’s space agency, ISRO, is striving to achieve a successful landing to advance lunar exploration and gain insights into frozen water’s presence on the moon.
The discovery of water ice holds significant potential for future lunar colonies, mining operations, and even Mars missions. The hunt for lunar water has a long history, dating back to the 1960s, but recent advancements have confirmed its existence.
Scientists are intrigued by the historical insights, resource potential, and practical applications of lunar water, including drinking water, equipment cooling, and fuel production.
International agreements like the Outer Space Treaty and efforts like the Artemis Accords shape the framework for lunar resource utilization, involving various countries.
Key UPSC Prelims Topics
- Lunar Water Ice: Frozen water located in the moon’s polar regions, holding historical, scientific, and practical value for space exploration.
- Artemis Accords: A set of principles led by the United States to guide international collaboration and responsible lunar exploration.
- Outer Space Treaty: A 1967 United Nations treaty preventing countries from claiming sovereignty over celestial bodies like the moon, while allowing peaceful and scientific use.
UPSC Mains & Interview Questions
1. How has the discovery of water ice on the moon changed the perspective on lunar exploration? Discuss critically.
Hint: The discovery of water ice on the moon has shifted the focus from dry, barren landscapes to a potential resource-rich environment that could sustain future space missions.
2. What technological advancements enabled the detection of water ice on the moon’s surface? Elucidate.
Hint: New technology used by Brown University researchers and NASA instruments, such as those on Chandrayaan-1 and other probes, facilitated the detection of water ice.
3. Why is the moon’s south pole particularly challenging for landing missions?
Hint: The moon’s south pole presents difficulties due to its crater-riddled terrain, deep trenches, and complex topography, making successful landings more demanding.
4. How might the presence of lunar water ice impact the feasibility of human missions to Mars?
Hint: Lunar water ice could potentially be used to produce hydrogen for fuel and oxygen for breathing, aiding sustained missions to Mars by providing essential resources.
5. Explain the significance of the Artemis Accords in the context of lunar exploration and resource utilization.
Hint: The Artemis Accords provide a framework for responsible lunar exploration and resource use, promoting collaboration among nations while addressing concerns about sovereignty and commercial operations.
6. Why have some countries, like China and Russia, not signed the Artemis Accords?
Hint: China and Russia have not signed the Artemis Accords due to potential geopolitical and strategic considerations, differing interpretations of space law, and concerns about the United States’ leading role in the initiative.
