Why in the News?
Scientists analysing data from Chandrayaan-3 discovered that the Moon’s upper surface near the landing site has two distinct layers within a few centimetres of depth.
Key Findings
- The lunar surface (regolith) is not uniform.
- A loose porous upper layer quickly changes into a denser compact layer:
- About 2 to 6 cm below the surface.
Role of the ‘Hop’ Experiment
- Chandrayaan-3 lander performed a small “hop”.
- The lander:
- Lifted about 40 cm above the surface
- Moved nearly 50 cm before landing again
ChaSTE Instrument
- The findings are based on data from Chandra’s Surface Thermophysical Experiment (ChaSTE)
Function
- Measured thermal properties and temperature profile of lunar soil.
- Used a rod-shaped probe with temperature sensors.
Important Discoveries
- Even at 6-9 cm depth, the Moon showed layered structure.
- Temperature dropped sharply with depth:
- Around 60°C lower at 10 cm depth compared to the surface.
| [2016] Consider the following statements: The Mangalyaan launched by ISRO 1. is also called the Mars Orbiter Mission 2. made India the second country to have a spacecraft orbit the Mars after USA 3. made India the only country to be successful in making its spacecraft orbit the Mars in its very first attempt Which of the statements given above is/are correct? [A] 1 only [B] 2 and 3 only [C] 1 and 3 only [D] 1, 2 and 3 |
