Chandrayaan-3 Mission: ISRO’s Collaborative Endeavor with Leading PSUs
Introduction:
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is on the cusp of achieving a historic milestone with its Chandrayaan-3 mission. This ambitious project aims to make history by becoming the first mission to successfully reach the south pole of the Moon. The journey to the Moon’s surface has been a collaborative effort, with several public sector undertakings (PSUs) playing a crucial role in making this mission a reality. In this blog, we’ll delve into the significant contributions of key PSUs, such as Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL), and Mishra Dhatu Nigam Limited (MIDHANI), to the Chandrayaan-3 mission.
Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL):
HAL, in conjunction with Larsen and Toubro’s consortium, emerged as a pivotal player in the Chandrayaan-3 mission. The consortium was entrusted with the task of manufacturing five Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) rockets. This landmark achievement was commemorated with an order valued at Rs 860 crore from NewSpace India Limited (NSIL). The agreement was finalized during the Inaugural Session of the 7th Bengaluru Space Expo 2022. This accomplishment underscores the prowess of Indian PSUs in advanced aerospace technology.
Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL):
BHEL’s Welding Research Institute (WRI) located in Trichy contributed significantly to the Chandrayaan-3 mission. The institute played a vital role in supporting ISRO by manufacturing and supplying bi-metallic adaptors essential for the mission’s success. These adaptors found their application in the cryogenic stage of the LVM-3M4 flight. The collaboration between BHEL’s WRI and ISRO exemplifies the synergy between scientific research and practical application, advancing India’s space exploration capabilities.
Mishra Dhatu Nigam Limited (MIDHANI):
MIDHANI, a distinguished defense PSU based in Kerala, played a pivotal role in the Chandrayaan-3 mission. Their contributions encompassed the supply of critical materials such as cobalt base alloys, nickel base alloys, and titanium alloys, all of which are crucial for the liquid engines of the mission. Moreover, MIDHANI’s expertise extended to providing integral components like nozzles for liquid stages, gas bottles, and cryogenic upper-stage components. The company’s commitment to precision and quality reflects its dedication to India’s space endeavors.
The Final Touchdown:
As the Chandrayaan-3 mission reaches its climactic moment, all eyes are set on the anticipated landing of the lander module on the lunar surface. This feat, scheduled for August 23, involves a daring descent from a height of 30 km onto the Moon’s terrain. The culmination of years of collaborative effort and expertise from ISRO and its PSU partners promises to mark a significant milestone in India’s space exploration journey.
The Chandrayaan-3 mission stands as a testament to India’s determination to push the boundaries of space exploration. The collaboration between ISRO and key PSUs like HAL, BHEL, and MIDHANI showcases the nation’s prowess in cutting-edge technology and engineering. As the Chandrayaan-3 lander module embarks on its historic descent, the collective efforts of these organizations will be etched in the annals of space exploration history.
FAQs :
1. What is Chandrayaan-3, and what makes it unique? Chandrayaan-3 is an ambitious lunar mission led by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). It aims to be the first mission to successfully land on the Moon’s south pole, a region relatively unexplored by previous missions.
2. How has the collaboration with PSUs contributed to Chandrayaan-3? Public sector undertakings (PSUs) like Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL), and Mishra Dhatu Nigam Limited (MIDHANI) have played vital roles. HAL and a consortium manufactured PSLV rockets, BHEL provided crucial bi-metallic adaptors, and MIDHANI supplied essential alloys for liquid engines and components.
3. What was HAL’s role in the Chandrayaan-3 mission? HAL, along with a consortium including Larsen and Toubro, was tasked with manufacturing PSLV rockets, showcasing India’s expertise in aerospace technology.
4. How did BHEL contribute to the mission’s success? BHEL’s Welding Research Institute (WRI) in Trichy supported ISRO by producing and supplying bi-metallic adaptors crucial for the mission. These adaptors were part of the cryogenic stage of the LVM-3M4 flight.
5. What is MIDHANI’s significance in Chandrayaan-3? MIDHANI, a defense PSU, supplied vital materials such as cobalt and nickel base alloys, titanium alloys, and specialized steels for liquid engines. They also provided essential components like nozzles and cryogenic upper-stage parts.
6. When is the anticipated landing of Chandrayaan-3’s lander module? The Chandrayaan-3 lander module is scheduled to attempt its landing on the Moon’s surface from a height of 30 km on August 23.
7. What does the collaboration between ISRO and PSUs signify? The collaboration exemplifies India’s prowess in space technology and engineering. It underscores the nation’s determination to explore new frontiers and push the boundaries of space exploration.
8. What can we expect from the Chandrayaan-3 mission? Chandrayaan-3’s successful landing on the Moon’s south pole will mark a historic achievement in space exploration, expanding our understanding of lunar terrain and its resources.
9. How will the Chandrayaan-3 mission impact India’s space aspirations? Chandrayaan-3 represents India’s commitment to innovation and advancement in space exploration. It will strengthen ISRO’s reputation as a global leader in space technology.
10. How can we stay updated on Chandrayaan-3’s progress? You can follow ISRO’s official website, news outlets, and social media channels for the latest updates and developments regarding the Chandrayaan-3 mission and its collaboration with PSUs.