Indian lunar module detects “movement” on the Moon: Is it seismic activity?
(ORDO NEWS) — The Indian spacecraft Chandrayaan-3 made a revolutionary discovery that could change our understanding of the internal structure of the Moon. For the first time since the 1970s, seismic data has been recorded, shedding light on the mysterious processes occurring beneath the lunar surface.
The Onboard Lunar Seismic Activity (ILSA) instrument on the Vikram satellite recorded these seismic vibrations, providing valuable insights into the geological activity of the Moon.
ILSA, equipped with advanced microelectromechanical systems (MEMS), not only detected vibrations caused by the Pragyan rover’s movement across the lunar surface, but also detected what appears to be a natural phenomenon, possibly an earthquake or impact.
The Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) said the main objective of ILSA is to measure ground vibrations resulting from natural earthquakes, impacts and man-made events. Vibrations recorded during the rover’s navigation on August 25, 2023, as well as an event recorded on August 26, 2023, are currently being studied.
This development is truly remarkable as it marks a significant milestone in lunar exploration. Scientists have been eagerly awaiting the opportunity to collect more data as it holds the key to unraveling the Moon’s internal composition and structure.
Seismic data will provide crucial information about its core, mantle and crust, allowing scientists to piece together the mystery of the Moon’s formation and evolution.
Despite the fact that only a few weeks have passed since Chandrayaan-3 landed on the lunar surface, it has already carried out many scientific observations. In particular, the presence of elements was discovered at the south pole of the Moon – an area shrouded in mystery.
However, the lunar lander and rover are currently in sleep mode due to the lunar night, which lasts about 14 days. Since they run on solar energy, they go into sleep mode at night when their batteries cannot be recharged.
On September 22, Vikram and Pragyan will awaken from their slumber and be ready to resume their exploration of the mysterious south pole. This region is of particular interest to scientists due to its potential water ice deposits and its importance for future lunar missions.
The data collected during this mission will contribute to our understanding of the Moon’s resources and its potential to support a human presence in the future.
The Chandrayaan-3 mission represents India‘s commitment to space exploration and scientific knowledge. By venturing into uncharted territory and pushing the boundaries of what we know, India is making significant contributions to our understanding of the Moon and other worlds.
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