Saved by 4 seconds': How ISRO prevented Chandrayaan-3 from crashing into a dead satellite

Produced by: Tarun Mishra Designed by: Manoj Kumar

ISRO's Ingenious Intervention

Amidst the excitement surrounding India's Chandrayaan-3 mission, ISRO's prompt action averted a potential disaster, showcasing its adeptness in space navigation.

Tense Moments Pre-Launch

In a recent revelation, ISRO disclosed the nail-biting moments preceding Chandrayaan-3's planned liftoff in July 2023 from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre.

Detection of Impending Collision

Moments before launch, ISRO's vigilant monitoring systems detected a looming threat: a piece of space debris on a collision course with Chandrayaan-3's intended path.

Decisive Response

Faced with this imminent danger, ISRO's mission control team swiftly opted to delay the launch by a mere four seconds, a decision that proved pivotal in avoiding catastrophe.

Precision Adjustment

This brief delay enabled precise adjustments to Chandrayaan-3's trajectory, ensuring it veered clear of the hazardous space debris hurtling towards it.

Utilization of Collision Avoidance Analysis

ISRO's decision was grounded in meticulous Collision Avoidance Analysis (COLA), an integral component of its Launch Clearance Protocol, highlighting the organization's commitment to safety.

Demonstrating ISRO's Expertise

The successful manoeuvre not only averted disaster but also underscored ISRO's prowess in mitigating the risks associated with space debris, showcasing its technological prowess.

Proactive Approach Revealed

ISRO's Space Situational Assessment Report (ISSAR) for 2023 unveiled its proactive stance, with 23 collision avoidance manoeuvres conducted to safeguard satellites.

Upholding Mission Success

Despite the heart-stopping episode, ISRO's strategic planning and utilization of advanced technologies ensured the safety of Chandrayaan-3 and other crucial missions, cementing India's position in the realm of space exploration.