Context:
In a joint effort, the space agencies of India and Japan are embarking on the Lunar Polar Exploration Mission (LUPEX).
Relevance:
GS III: Science and Technology
Dimensions of the Article:
- Lunar Polar Exploration Mission (LUPEX):
Lunar Polar Exploration Mission (LUPEX):
Collaborative Venture:
- LUPEX is a joint effort between Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).
- The mission is set to launch in 2025.
Objectives:
- LUPEX aims to explore the lunar polar region and assess the feasibility of establishing a Moon base.
- It will study the presence of water ice and surface exploration technologies.
Partnership and Instruments:
- JAXA and ISRO are developing the rover and lander, respectively.
- The mission will carry instruments from ISRO, JAXA, NASA, and the European Space Agency (ESA).
Proposed Instruments:
- Ahmedabad-based Physical Research Laboratory (PRL) proposed instruments for LUPEX.
- “Permittivity and Thermo-physical investigation for Moon’s Aquatic Scout (PRATHIMA)” aims to detect and quantify water-ice mixed with lunar soil.
- “Lunar Electrostatic Dust EXperiment (LEDEX)” aims to study charged dust particles and levitation processes in the polar region.
Insights and Future Exploration:
- LUPEX will provide valuable insights into the lunar polar region.
- The mission’s findings will contribute to future human exploration of the Moon and potential establishment of a base.
-Source: Times of India
