Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Mar 19: Union Minister of State for the Department of Space, Jitendra Singh, announced in Parliament on Wednesday that the Chandrayaan-4 mission, set to launch in 2047, will feature advanced lunar docking technology and bring back lunar samples. This mission is a crucial step toward India's ambitious space goals, including the establishment of the Bharatiya Antariksha Station and a manned Moon mission.

Singh emphasized that Chandrayaan-4 will not only aim for a successful Moon landing but also focus on mastering docking and undocking procedures. These capabilities are vital for future interplanetary missions and space station operations. He noted that the mission is integral to India’s long-term plans, which include sending an Indian astronaut to the Moon.

The mission will consist of two launch vehicles carrying five components, which will perform complex maneuvers, including docking in Earth’s orbit. After reaching lunar orbit, the modules will separate, with one module collecting samples, while the other returns to dock before heading back to Earth.

Singh also mentioned the approval of the Chandrayaan-5 mission, set to deliver a 250 kg rover to the lunar surface in collaboration with Japan’s space agency for detailed lunar surface studies. He praised the safe return of Indian-origin NASA astronaut Sunita Williams, calling it a moment of pride and relief for the nation.