Produced by: Tarun Mishra Designed by: Mohsin Shaikh
While Chandrayaan-3 remains in a prolonged state of dormancy on the lunar surface, it continues to unravel enigmatic revelations, with the most recent being the surprising integration of nuclear technology
The Propulsion Module of Chandrayaan-3, responsible for delivering both the Vikram lander and Pragyan rover to the Moon, is intriguingly fuelled by advanced nuclear technology, specifically through Radioisotope Heating Units (RHUs), said a report by Times of India (TOI) quoting Ajit Kumar Mohanty, the Chairman of Atomic Energy Commission
A Radioisotope Heating Unit (RHU) is a highly sophisticated device engineered to generate consistent heat by capturing the energy produced through the controlled radioactive decay of specific isotopes
In the context of spacecraft, RHUs play a pivotal role in ensuring the reliability and prolonged functionality of diverse components, safeguarding them against the extreme cold of outer space and celestial bodies
RHUs emerge as indispensable assets in scenarios where conventional heating methods, such as electrical heaters, may prove insufficient to endure the frigid conditions of space
Notably, the Propulsion Module orbiting the Moon currently houses two RHUs, installed for experimental purposes on Chandrayaan-3, reflects ISRO's ambition to expand the utilisation of nuclear-based technologies in space exploration
These RHUs comprise a radioactive isotope, frequently plutonium-238 (Pu-238), most commonly in the form of plutonium dioxide (PuO2). The consistent heat generated from the predictable exothermic decay of this isotope is effectively harnessed for practical applications
RHUs offer a distinctive advantage by significantly extending the operational lifespan of missions. Notably, plutonium-238, with a half-life of approximately 87.7 years, ensures a continuous and dependable heat source for many decades
RHUs stand out as highly reliable devices, free from the constraints of moving parts or external power sources, making them ideally suited for unmanned missions that confront arduous conditions over protracted periods
RHUs have consistently played a critical role in preserving the optimal performance of onboard instruments and systems, allowing spacecraft to carry out indispensable scientific research over extended missions
ISRO's application of nuclear-based technology follows the precedent set by renowned missions such as Curiosity and Perseverance, where Mars rovers have effectively utilised RHUs to maintain crucial components in the harsh Martian climate
Apart from planetary exploration, RHUs have played an instrumental role in missions like Voyager-1 and Voyager-2, both embarking on remarkable journeys through interstellar space. These spacecrafts have maintained operations for over five decades, now venturing beyond the limits of our solar system
ISRO's utilisation of nuclear technology on the Moon marks a significant milestone in space exploration, not only providing profound insights into the future of resilient, enduring missions but also underscoring the organisation’s unwavering commitment to advancing the frontiers of scientific innovation and discovery