ISRO unveils initial findings from Vikram Lander’s ChaSTE payload on Chandrayaan-3

NEW DELHI: In an exciting leap towards understanding the Moon’s thermal mysteries, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has released initial findings from the Chandra’s Surface Thermophysical Experiment (ChaSTE) payload aboard Chandrayaan-3’s Vikram lander. Revealing the lunar south pole’s temperature profile for the first time, these observations shed light on temperature variations within the surface and its vicinity through its core.

Developed by the Space Physics Laboratory (SPL) at the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC) in collaboration with the Physical Research Laboratory (PRL) in Ahmedabad, ChaSTE is a groundbreaking effort. The payload, equipped with a specialized temperature probe designed to penetrate up to 10 cm beneath the lunar surface,features ten precise temperature sensors. This innovative setup aims to decode the Moon’s thermal dynamics intricately.

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ChaSTE’s inaugural findings bring a pivotal moment in lunar exploration. By capturing temperature fluctuations during the probe’s penetration, ISRO’s revelations offer an initial glimpse into the Moon’s enigmatic thermal patterns at various depths. These insights hold the promise of redefining our comprehension of the Moon’s geological evolution.

Chandrayaan-3 Mission:
Here are the first observations from the ChaSTE payload onboard Vikram Lander.

ChaSTE (Chandra’s Surface Thermophysical Experiment) measures the temperature profile of the lunar topsoil around the pole, to understand the thermal behaviour of the moon’s… pic.twitter.com/VZ1cjWHTnd

— ISRO (@isro) August 27, 2023

Chairman S Somanath’s enthusiasm is palpable as he confirms the Chandrayaan-3 lander and rover’s seamless operation. With all five onboard instruments activated, experiments are set to conclude by September 3. Somanath’s optimism extends to achieving a comprehensive view of the lunar realm by subjecting the spacecraft to diverse testing modes.

“Everything is working very well. Chandrayaan-3, the lander, the rover is very healthy and all the five instruments on board have been switched on. And it’s giving beautiful data now,” said  S. Somanath as per the reports.

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Amid collaborations between SPL at VSSC and PRL in Ahmedabad, ChaSTE’s development underscores India’s scientific prowess and commitment to space exploration. As further observations unfold, the ChaSTE payload could unveil data that transforms our lunar insights, informing future missions and expanding our cosmic understanding.