Government green-lights the mission
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has officially received Cabinet approval for Chandrayaan-4, a lunar sample-return mission targeted for launch in 2028. ISRO Chairman V. Narayanan confirmed the date, positioning the mission as a landmark for India’s space-exploration ambitions.
What the mission aims to achieve
Chandrayaan-4 is designed as India’s first effort to land on the Moon, collect lunar surface samples, and bring them back to Earth. The mission is set to retrieve up to roughly 3 kg of lunar soil from the region near the Chandrayaan-3 landing site at “Statio Shiv Shakti”. If successful, India would become the fourth country (after the US, Russia and China) to complete a sample-return mission from the Moon.
The technical challenge
This mission is markedly more complex than ISRO’s previous lunar endeavours. It will involve:
- A soft-landing on the lunar surface.
- Collection of surface and sub-surface samples via robotic mechanisms.
- Ascent from the lunar surface back into lunar orbit and then a return to Earth via a re-entry module.
Multiple launches and in-orbit docking are planned to assemble modules before lunar transfer — capabilities ISRO is currently testing.
Strategic importance for India
The mission advances several national goals:
- Demonstrating advanced space-systems engineering and enhancing India’s credentials in deep-space exploration.
- Supporting the broader roadmap toward India crewed lunar missions by 2040.
- Cementing India’s place in a competitive space-exploration environment, and contributing to scientific knowledge of the Moon.
Timeline and roadmap
According to ISRO and government-sources, key milestone timelines include:
- 2028: Launch of Chandrayaan-4 sample-return mission.
- Parallel development: An Indian space-station module is planned for orbit by 2028 as part of a 2035 target.
- Beyond 2028: Further lunar missions (e.g., polar exploration) and ultimately, crewed lunar landings.
What to watch next
- Progress in demonstration missions of in-orbit docking and module integration, which are critical to Chandrayaan-4’s success.
- Announcement of more specific launch window, payload details and lunar-landing site confirmation.
- Production timelines for launch vehicles and space-modules, as ISRO ramps up capacity in conjunction with private-industry participation.
- International collaboration and possible scientific partnerships or data-sharing agreements connected with the mission.
Final word
Chandrayaan-4 represents a bold leap for India’s space programme. By targeting a 2028 launch for a lunar sample-return mission, ISRO is signalling its shift from lunar landings toward more intricate and scientifically rich endeavours. The road ahead is challenging — but if all goes to plan, India may soon join the elite club of nations that have fetched Moon rocks and returned them to Earth.
