ISRO’s Chandrayaan-4 is scheduled for a
2028 launch as a complex, two-phase sample-return mission targeting the Moon’s south pole (specifically the Mons Mouton region). Unlike previous missions, this, the first Indian mission to return lunar soil and rocks, will use two separate LVM3 rockets to launch five modules that dock in Earth orbit.
Key Differences and Mission Highlights
- Sample Return Focus: The primary goal is to collect roughly 3 kg of lunar soil and rocks from the south pole region and return them to Earth for laboratory analysis.
- Two-Phase Launch (2028): Due to the mission’s weight (approx. 9,200 kg), it will be launched in two separate phases using two LVM3 rockets.
- Phase 1: Carries the ascender and descender modules.
- Phase 2: Carries the transfer, re-entry, and propulsion modules.
- Orbital Docking: The modules will assemble in Earth orbit through docking maneuvers before proceeding to the Moon.
- Five Modules: The spacecraft comprises five components: Propulsion Module, Landing Module, Ascent Module, Transfer Module, and Re-entry Module.
- Landing Site: Four sites in the Mons Mouton area were analyzed, with “MM-4” selected for its low hazard, gentle slope, and high number of safe landing spots.
- Advanced Technology: The mission will feature a robotic arm to collect and drill samples, which will then be transferred to a sealed container for return to Earth.
This mission is a major step towards India’s goals of sending humans to the Moon, with the docking technology serving as a crucial test.
