India’s Vikram lander and Pragyaan rover, which landed on the lunar surface as part of the Chandrayaan-2 mission, have yet to awaken from their sleep mode, causing worries about their survival. The Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) has been unable to establish communication with the lander and rover, leading to concerns that they may never awaken again.
Scientists attribute the prolonged sleep of the lander and rover to the harsh conditions on the lunar surface, particularly the absence of the Sun’s warming rays. Without sunlight, the temperature drops significantly, making it challenging for the equipment to function properly. Mission control is making ongoing efforts to reestablish communication with the lander and rover, but hopes are dimming as time passes.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding Vikram and Pragyaan, the Chandrayaan-2 mission has already achieved significant milestones. If Vikram never wakes up again, the mission can still be considered a groundbreaking success. Vikram, in particular, has served as “India’s lunar ambassador” on the Moon, showcasing India’s technological capabilities and expertise in space exploration to the world.
It is worth noting that surviving the harsh lunar conditions is indeed challenging, but other lunar rovers have overcome similar obstacles. China’s Chang’e-4 and Yutu-2 have successfully awakened from their slumber on the lunar surface, demonstrating that there is hope for Vikram and Pragyaan.
Mission control will continue its efforts to establish communication with the lander and rover until the next sunset on September 30, maximizing their chances of waking up. The ISRO team remains hopeful and determined, tirelessly working towards reestablishing contact with the silent explorers.
As we patiently wait for updates from the ISRO, the entire nation and the global space community remain hopeful that Vikram and Pragyaan will spring back to life and continue to explore the mysteries of the Moon’s surface.
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