Bengaluru: The Central Government has approved the Indian Space Research Organization’s (ISRO) ambitious Shukrayaan-1 Mission, said Nilesh Desai, Director of ISRO. The mission aims to explore Venus, the second planet from the Sun, often referred to as Earth’s “twin.” Scheduled for launch in 2028, this groundbreaking mission will study the planet’s atmosphere, surface, and geological processes using advanced scientific instruments.
The mission is spearheaded by the ISRO continuing its legacy of interplanetary exploration after the successes of Mangalyaan and Chandrayaan missions. Shukrayaan-1 will deploy a spacecraft into orbit around Venus. The purpose of the mission is to enhance understanding of Venus’s dense cloud cover, mainly consisting of carbon dioxide and sulphuric acid. Equipped with instruments such as synthetic aperture radar and spectrometers, the orbiter will analyze Venus’ thick carbon dioxide-rich atmosphere, explore its volcanic activity, and investigate its interaction with solar winds. Studying the planet is expected to provide insights into planetary evolution and Earth’s potential future under climate change. With surface temperatures exceeding 470°C, Venus offers a natural laboratory for understanding the consequences of a runaway greenhouse effect.
The mission will utilize advanced technology, including international collaborations, to deploy sensors capable of measuring atmospheric composition, surface stratigraphy, and ionospheric behavior. Instruments like the Venus Infrared Atmospheric Gases Linker (VIRAL) and the Retarding Potential Analyzer will play pivotal roles in unraveling the planet’s mysteries.
Shukrayaan-1 reinforces India’s position as a leader in space exploration, joining global efforts by NASA and ESA in studying Venus. Going further, ISRO is also planning a collaborative Moon mission with Japan. Additionally, Desai also outlined the plans for Mars exploration and space station development.
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