Objectives of the chandrayan

The Chandrayaan-1 mission will help ISRO to prepare high-resolution, three-dimensional topography of moon.

The Moon, the only natural satellite of Earth, is an intermediary planet. Explorations there could serve as a scientific and technological exercise in man`s dream of reaching to other planets like Mars.

A detail study of distribution of various chemical and minerals in the entire lunar surface will help in unraveling the mystery of evolution of the moon and solar system.

This mission will help in exploring the permanently shadowed north and south polar regions of the moon.

ISRO will also search for surface or sub-surface water-ice on the moon.

Further, it will help India to master the know-how of science payloads, lunar craft and the launch vehicle supported by DSN station, in-orbit operation of experiments, space communication/ telecommand, telemetry data reception, quick look data and archival for scientific utilization by identified group of scientists.

The Moon could be a major source of energy for human beings, who are grappling with the grim question of how to overcome the critical situation caused by fast depleting fossil fuel reserves on Earth. The detection of Helium in the celestial body`s surface has only helped in revitalizing newer lunar missions.

This first inter-planetary exploration is crucial as it would be followed by manned Indian lunar mission Chandrayaan-II, planned to be launched by mid-2010 for which the government had given approval.

A key Indian payload to be carried by the mission is the Moon Impact Probe (MIP) to prove technological elements for future landing missions.