UPSC Mapping

Prelims	Mains
ISRO, JAXA, LUPEX, Moon South Pole	GS Paper III – Space Technology and International Cooperation

Quick Facts

Mission Name	LUPEX
Launch Target	Around 2028
Partners	ISRO & JAXA

Article

What is Chandrayaan-5?

Chandrayaan-5, also known as LUPEX (Lunar Polar Exploration), is a joint lunar exploration mission of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA). The mission is planned for launch around 2028. Its primary objective is to explore the Moon’s South Pole and investigate the presence of surface and subsurface water-ice deposits, which are considered crucial for future long-duration lunar exploration.

Why is Chandrayaan-5 in News?

Scientists from ISRO and JAXA recently reviewed the progress of the Chandrayaan-5 mission as preparations continue for its planned launch. The review highlights the growing cooperation between India and Japan in advanced space exploration and lunar science.

Key Features

• Joint mission: Collaborative project between ISRO and JAXA under the LUPEX programme.
• Launch vehicle: Scheduled to be launched aboard Japan’s H3 rocket.
• Mission objective: Explore the Moon’s South Pole to study both surface and subsurface water-ice deposits.
• Scientific payload: Spacecraft will carry seven scientific instruments to conduct multiple lunar experiments.
• International cooperation: Strengthens scientific and technological collaboration between India and Japan.

Significance of the Mission

• Water-ice exploration: Studying polar ice deposits can improve understanding of the Moon’s resource potential.
• Future human missions: Water ice may support future lunar habitats by providing drinking water, oxygen and rocket fuel.
• Scientific research: Mission will generate valuable data on the geology and environment of the lunar South Pole.
• Strategic partnership: Demonstrates India’s expanding role in international space cooperation.

Way Forward

Successful execution of Chandrayaan-5 will strengthen India’s capabilities in advanced lunar exploration and enhance scientific cooperation with international partners. Continued investment in space research can accelerate innovations in planetary science and deep-space missions. The mission is expected to complement India’s growing space programme while contributing to global efforts to understand and utilise lunar resources responsibly. Official information is available through the ISRO and the JAXA websites.

Prelims Practice Corner

Q1. Chandrayaan-5 is also known as?

• (a) Gaganyaan
• (b) LUPEX
• (c) Aditya-L2
• (d) Shukrayaan

Answer: (b)

Q2. Chandrayaan-5 is a joint mission between ISRO and?

• (a) NASA
• (b) ESA
• (c) Roscosmos
• (d) JAXA

Answer: (d)

Q3. The primary target of Chandrayaan-5 is?

• (a) Lunar equator
• (b) Far side of the Moon
• (c) Moon’s South Pole
• (d) Lunar orbit only

Answer: (c)

Q4. Chandrayaan-5 is planned to be launched on which rocket?

• (a) PSLV
• (b) GSLV Mk III
• (c) H3
• (d) Falcon 9

Answer: (c)

Q5. The mission is expected to carry how many scientific instruments?

• (a) Four
• (b) Five
• (c) Seven
• (d) Ten

Answer: (c)

Mains Practice Questions

Q1. Discuss the significance of Chandrayaan-5 in advancing India’s lunar exploration programme and international space cooperation. (10 marks)

Answer Structure:

• Intro: Introduce LUPEX and its objectives.
• Body: Scientific goals, India-Japan cooperation, water-ice exploration and technological significance.
• Conclusion: Highlight its contribution to future lunar missions.

Q2. Examine the importance of exploring the Moon’s South Pole for future space exploration and resource utilisation. (15 marks)

Answer Structure:

• Intro: Explain the strategic importance of the lunar South Pole.
• Body: Water-ice deposits, scientific research, human exploration and international collaboration.
• Conclusion: Emphasise sustainable lunar exploration.

FAQs

What is Chandrayaan-5?

Chandrayaan-5, also called LUPEX (Lunar Polar Exploration), is a joint lunar mission of ISRO and JAXA to study the Moon’s South Pole.

What is the main objective of Chandrayaan-5?

The mission aims to investigate surface and subsurface water-ice deposits near the Moon’s South Pole using multiple scientific instruments.

When is Chandrayaan-5 expected to launch?

According to current plans, Chandrayaan-5 is targeted for launch around 2028 aboard Japan’s H3 launch vehicle.