Bengaluru, NFAPost: The Indian space agency is currently in the study phase for its second mission to Mars, as stated by a senior scientist from the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). M Sankaran, Director of the UR Rao Satellite Centre, emphasized the need for a larger mission with more scientific outcomes compared to the previous Mars Orbiter Mission (MOM). Various options are being explored, and the mission is still in the configuration stage.
India successfully launched its first Mars Orbiter Mission, named Mangalyaan, on November 5, 2013. It began orbiting Mars on September 24, 2014. Unfortunately, the orbiter lost contact in October 2022, concluding the Mangalyaan-1 mission.
In regards to Chandrayaan-3, the lunar spacecraft has already arrived at the launch port. The necessary preparations are currently underway in Sriharikota, and it is expected that the launch will take place in July.
The space scientist mentioned that thorough checks have been conducted on every aspect of the mission, incorporating the lessons learned from the Chandrayaan-2 mission. Extensive precautions have been taken, and the atmosphere at ISRO is positive and optimistic.
Regarding India’s Gaganyaan space mission, Sankaran described it as an intense project with numerous new developments and activities underway. Many tests and advancements are occurring behind the scenes, though not readily visible to the public. However, he anticipates that something significant will become visible to the people during the current year.