Chandrayaan-3 to be Launched Between July 12 and 19, Confirms ISRO Chief

Vaikom, June 13, 2023 - The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has announced that Chandrayaan-3, India's highly anticipated lunar mission, is set to be launched between July 12 and 19 this year. S. Somanath, the Chairman of ISRO, revealed the eagerly awaited launch window during a press conference held at St. Xavier's College.

The preparations for Chandrayaan-3 have been progressing smoothly, with the satellite already transported from the U.R. Rao Satellite Centre in Bengaluru to the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota. "The final stage activities are under way in Sriharikota," said Somanath, highlighting the current focus on the launch site.

To ensure optimal fuel utilization, the docking operations of the LVM (Land Vehicle Mark) rocket, which will carry the Chandrayaan spacecraft, are scheduled to be completed by the end of this month. Somanath explained that the chosen launch window of July 12 to 19 minimizes fuel loss, making it the most favorable time for the mission. However, the final launch date is contingent upon the successful completion of all tests and preparations.

Learning from the technical challenges faced during the Chandrayaan-2 mission, Somanath emphasized that significant changes have been made to Chandrayaan-3. These alterations encompass various aspects, including the spacecraft's structure, hardware, software, and sensors, with the aim of preventing a recurrence of the previous mission's failure.

Chandrayaan-3, the third edition of India's lunar exploration program, holds immense scientific potential. The primary objective of the mission is to successfully land a rover on the Moon's surface and conduct further in-depth research. The upcoming launch is highly anticipated, not only within India but also among space enthusiasts and scientists worldwide.

The success of Chandrayaan-3 would not only mark a significant milestone for India's space exploration endeavors but also contribute to the global understanding of the Moon and its resources. As the launch date approaches, the excitement continues to build, paving the way for a new chapter in India's space exploration saga.