Chandraayan 1

The first Indian space mission is off to a good start. The Chandrayaan 1 has successfully taken off this morning, from a launch pad in Andhra Pradesh.

The Moon mission will last two years, during which the spacecraft will orbit the Moon in order to obtain various sets of images, and analysis of the surface and of the soil composition.

The $78 million mission has several purposes: to detect the water-ice sub-surface, and the Helium 3 deposits – a rare isotope believed to be useful in nuclear power production.

This programme is of extreme importance to India, as it will bring the country at level of other Asian countries. The country’s Prime Minister, Manmohan Singh, has expressed his joy and excitement about the event and has brought official thanks to the team of scientists who have made this possible.

The launch was broadcast on national television in order to make everyone aware of this major event, and Indian citizens are pleased with the programme.