SHUKRAYAAN

The Venus Orbiter Mission, unofficially known as Shukrayaan, is a planned Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) mission to study the surface and atmosphere of Venus. It is expected to launch in 2024.

Key features of the mission

• The spacecraft will orbit Venus for four years, enabling a comprehensive study of the planet's dynamic atmosphere and surface features.
• The mission will carry a suite of scientific instruments, including a high-resolution camera, an atmospheric spectrometer, and a plasma analyzer, to gather detailed information about Venus's atmosphere, surface composition, and ionosphere.
• The mission aims to shed light on the evolution of Venus, particularly its transition from a potentially habitable planet to its current harsh environment. It will also investigate the planet's unique atmospheric dynamics and greenhouse effect, providing insights into climate change processes.
• The mission will involve collaboration with international space agencies, such as NASA, which will contribute a Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) instrument to map Venus's surface at high resolution.
• The mission will push the boundaries of spacecraft design and engineering, as it will need to withstand the extreme conditions of Venus's atmosphere and surface. This will contribute to India's growing expertise in space technology.

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is the premier national space agency of India, headquartered in Bengaluru. Established in 1969, ISRO has emerged as a global leader in space technology and is renowned for its cost-effective and innovative approach to space exploration.

4.1. Vision and Mission

ISRO's vision is to harness space technology for national development while pursuing space science research and planetary exploration. Its mission is to develop and operate space systems and applications for societal benefit while promoting space research and fostering international cooperation.

4.2. Core Objectives

ISRO's core objectives encompass a wide range of space-related activities, including:

• Developing and launching communication and navigation satellites to provide essential services for telecommunication, broadcasting, weather forecasting, and disaster management.
• Utilizing Earth observation satellites to gather data for resource mapping, environmental monitoring, and disaster management, aiding in national development planning.
• Conducting space science research and planetary exploration missions to enhance our understanding of the universe and explore celestial bodies.
• Designing and building a range of launch vehicles to provide reliable and cost-effective access to space for India's satellites and spacecraft.
• Developing the technology and infrastructure for human spaceflight, enabling India to send astronauts into space and conduct future crewed missions.

4.3. Achievements and Contributions

ISRO has a remarkable track record of achievements, including:

• Launching India's first satellite, Aryabhata, in 1975, and subsequently launching numerous satellites for communication, navigation, remote sensing, and scientific purposes.
• Successfully placed a spacecraft in Mars orbit in 2014, making India the first nation to achieve this feat in its maiden attempt.
• Sending Chandrayaan-1 to the Moon in 2008, discovering water molecules on the lunar surface, and launching Chandrayaan-2 in 2019, attempting a soft landing on the Moon.
• Developing a reputation for delivering high-impact space missions at relatively low costs, demonstrating India's ingenuity and resourcefulness.
• Engaging in international partnerships and collaborations with various space agencies, promoting knowledge sharing and joint space endeavours.

4.4. Global Recognition and Impact

• ISRO has earned global recognition for its contributions to space technology and exploration.
• It is a member of several international space organizations and actively participates in global space initiatives.
• ISRO's achievements have inspired nations around the world, particularly developing countries, demonstrating that space exploration is not limited to a select few but can be pursued with ingenuity and determination.
• In essence, the ISRO stands as a testament to India's scientific and technological prowess.
• It has transformed India's space capabilities, placing the country among the world's leading spacefaring nations, and continues to inspire future generations to reach for the stars.