Discoveries from Chandrayaan-3: The Ice Beneath the Moon

New Discoveries from the Chandrayaan-3 Mission

The Chandrayaan-3 mission has provided groundbreaking insights into the presence of ice beneath the Moon’s surface, particularly in its polar regions. Data collected from the Vikram lander’s ChaSTE probe suggests that ice may be more widespread than previously thought.

Key Findings

• Temperature Variations and Ice Formation
  The study found that local temperature changes can directly impact the formation and preservation of ice. Measurements at the Shiv Shakti Point (Chandrayaan-3’s landing site at 69° south latitude) showed temperatures ranging from 82°C to -170°C. Slopes facing away from the Sun at high latitudes could be cold enough for ice to accumulate near the surface.
• Potential Ice Deposits
  High-latitude regions, similar to NASA’s Artemis mission landing sites, may hold ice deposits that are more accessible than previously believed. These areas could serve as valuable water-ice resources for future lunar missions and human habitation.
• Ice Sublimation Instead of Melting
  Due to the Moon’s ultra-high vacuum environment, ice cannot exist in liquid form but sublimates directly into vapor. This suggests that while past conditions may have allowed liquid water, present conditions do not.
• Scientific and Exploration Importance
  Regions with stable ice deposits could be used for water extraction, resource prospecting, and even long-term lunar habitation. Developing methods to extract and use this ice is crucial for future Moon missions.

Implications for Space Missions

• Strengthening the Case for Manned Missions
  Chandrayaan-3’s findings strengthen the case for future manned missions to high-latitude lunar regions. These locations present lower technical challenges compared to polar exploration.
• Need for Further Studies
  More studies are needed to map ice distribution and its accessibility for sustainable lunar exploration.

“The Moon holds answers to our past and the key to our future. Exploring its mysteries will take us one step closer to the stars.”