India’s First Mission to the Moon

1. It was launched on 22nd October, 2008 by Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV-C11).
India is the sixth nation to launch a mission to the moon.

2. Instruments used on Chandrayaan I.
a) Terrain mapping camera to understand moon’s evolution.
b) High energy X-ray spectrometer to detect radioactive emissions.
c) Lunar Laser ranging instruments to find out the distance between spacecraft and moon’s surface.

3. Mission objectives:
Create a three dimensional map of the moon, study its mineral and chemical composition.
Search for Helium 3:
Hunt for the presence of water.

Long term objective:
Use science for commercial and social gain.

4. Future Benefits to India:
a) Staking a claim for commercial satellite launches.
B) Transform technology bringing faster development to the country.
c) Exploring space will ensure competitiveness of India’s information technology industry.