In a significant stride toward lunar exploration, the Chandrayaan-3 mission accomplished a critical feat by flawlessly executing the Lunar Orbit Insertion (LOI) process. Employing a retro-burning technique at the Perilune, the maneuver spanned 1835 seconds, commencing at 19:12 Hrs IST. This accomplishment resulted in a precisely intended orbit configuration of 164 km x 18074 km.
The success of this endeavor marks the third consecutive instance of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) effectively situating its spacecraft in lunar orbit, mirroring similar accomplishments in Martian orbits.
As the mission unfolds, a meticulously planned sequence of maneuvers is poised to progressively lower Chandrayaan-3's orbit, strategically aligning it over the lunar poles. Subsequent to a series of maneuvers, the propulsion module is scheduled to disengage from the lander while in orbit. A sequence of intricate braking maneuvers will ensue, ultimately facilitating a gentle touchdown in the Moon's South Polar region on August 23, 2023.
The health of the Chandrayaan-3 spacecraft remains optimal. Vigilant monitoring is being upheld throughout the mission from the Mission Operations Complex (MOX) at ISRO Telemetry, Tracking, and Command Network (ISTRAC). Additional support is rendered by the Indian Deep Space Network (IDSN) antenna at Byalalu, in proximity to Bengaluru, in collaboration with the European Space Agency (ESA) and the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) Deep Space Antenna.
Anticipating the mission's continued progress, the next Lunar bound orbit maneuver is scheduled for August 6, 2023, slated to take place between 22:30 and 23:30 Hrs IST.
Source: ISRO
