Chandrayaan-3’s data reveals that water ice on the Moon is more accessible than previously thought, with potential stability even in non-polar regions. Temperature variations at Shiv Shakti Point highlight extreme lunar conditions, influencing water ice distribution and its viability for future human missions.
Relevance : GS 3(Science and Technology)
- Temperature Variations:
- Surface temperature at Shiv Shakti Point recorded at 82°C.
- Just a meter away, temperature dropped to 58°C, highlighting micro-scale thermal variations.
- Nighttime temperature plummeted to -181°C, showcasing extreme lunar conditions.
- Implications for Water Ice Stability:
- Previously, water ice was thought to be stable only at polar regions.
- New data suggests higher latitude regions could also support water ice at shallow depths.
- Slopes facing away from the Sun with an inclination greater than 14° maintain lower temperatures, allowing ice to stabilize beneath the surface.
Significance for Lunar Exploration and Human Missions
- Water as a Crucial Lunar Resource:
- Essential for drinking and sanitation for astronauts.
- Potential source of rocket fuel via electrolysis to separate hydrogen and oxygen.
- Reduces dependence on Earth-based supply missions, making long-term lunar habitation feasible.
- Advancements in Lunar Thermophysics Understanding:
- First-ever in-situ temperature measurements in a high-latitude lunar region.
- Challenges previous remote-sensing estimates from NASA’s Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter (LRO).
- Helps in refining 3D thermophysical models to predict water ice migration and stability.
Strategic Importance for India and Global Lunar Missions
- India’s Lunar Science Leadership:
- Enhances ISRO’s credibility in space exploration.
- Positions India as a key contributor to international lunar resource utilization efforts.
- Support for Future Moon Bases:
- Identifying water-rich zones eases site selection for permanent lunar habitats.
- Facilitates fuel depots for deep-space missions (e.g., Mars exploration).
- Collaborations & Future Missions:
- Findings can guide Artemis Accords nations (NASA-led coalition) and other global lunar projects.
- India could leverage this data for Chandrayaan-4 and potential manned lunar missions.
Conclusion
- Chandrayaan-3’s findings expand the scope of lunar water availability, challenging existing assumptions.
- The discovery of temperature fluctuations and ice stability at non-polar locations enhances lunar resource planning for long-term human presence.
- Future studies on lunar thermophysics will further refine water ice mapping, aiding sustainable moon colonization efforts.
