ISRO is speeding up its space missions with big plans for Chandrayaan-4 and Chandrayaan-5. These lunar projects follow the success of Chandrayaan-3’s south pole landing in 2023. Preparations are in full swing to boost India’s space power. This sample-return mission aims to collect up to 3 kg of lunar soil and rocks. Approved in September 2024 with Rs. 2,104 crore budget, it uses five modules for landing, sample collection, ascent, docking, and Earth return. Launch is eyed for 2028 after design phase nears end.
A joint effort with Japan’s JAXA, it features a heavy 6,400 kg lander and 350 kg rover—far bigger than Chandrayaan-3’s 25 kg rover. The rover will explore for 100 days, studying lunar geology deeply. It builds toward human moon landings by 2040.
ISRO Chair V Narayanan said 2027 marks key launches like Gaganyaan alongside Chandrayaan-4 prep. New facilities for moon sample storage and robotic tech like drills and arms are readying. India targets 10% global space economy share from current 2%.
These missions showcase precision landing, mid-orbit docking, and re-entry tech. They fuel jobs, innovation, and science, inspiring youth after successes like NISAR and SpaDeX in 2025.
FAQs [Frequently Asked Questions]
1. When is Chandrayaan-4 launch planned?
Expected around 2028 after Cabinet approval in 2024. It focuses on lunar sample return using five modules for collection and Earth docking.
2. What makes Chandrayaan-5 special?
Joint with JAXA, it has a 350 kg rover for 100-day ops, weighing 6,400 kg total. It advances deep lunar science.
3. What budget for Chandrayaan-4?
Rs. 2,104 crore approved. Mission completes in 36 months, boosting ISRO’s sample tech and global standing.