Mangalyaan, also known as the Mars Orbiter Mission (MOM), is India’s first interplanetary mission, launched by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) to explore Mars. Launched on November 5, 2013, it holds significant importance as India became the first Asian nation to reach Mars orbit and the fourth space agency globally to do so. The mission aimed to demonstrate India’s technological capabilities in interplanetary space exploration and gather scientific data about Mars.
Design and Construction
Mangalyaan was designed with a focus on cost-effectiveness and efficiency. Its lightweight design, weighing only 1,337 kilograms, was achieved through the innovative use of carbon composites and aluminum. The spacecraft’s five scientific instruments were carefully selected to maximize scientific output while minimizing weight and power consumption. Despite a limited budget, ISRO engineers overcame several engineering challenges, including optimizing the spacecraft’s trajectory to reach Mars with minimal fuel consumption.
Mission Objectives
The primary objective of Mangalyaan was to study Mars’ surface, morphology, atmosphere, and mineralogy. Secondary objectives included exploring Martian moons, studying the planet’s atmosphere, and investigating the presence of methane, which could indicate the possibility of past or present life.
Launch and Deployment
Mangalyaan was launched aboard a Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV-C25) from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, India, on November 5, 2013. The deployment into Mars’ orbit occurred on September 24, 2014, after a 300-day journey. The mission encountered no major issues during launch or deployment. Key discoveries include evidence of Martian methane and the mapping of the planet’s surface.
Technical Specifications
- Dimensions: 1.5 × 1.5 × 1.0 meters
- Weight: 1,337 kilograms
- Payload Capacity: Five scientific instruments
- Propulsion System: Liquid apogee motor and thrusters
- Power Source: Solar panels generating up to 840 watts
- Instruments and Equipment: Includes a color camera, thermal infrared spectrometer, methane sensor, and more.
Current Status
As of 2024, Mangalyaan remains active in Mars orbit, continuing its scientific observations and data collection. ISRO is considering extending the mission’s duration to further explore Mars’ surface and atmosphere.
