In a landmark achievement for India's space programme, ISRO's Chandrayaan-4 spacecraft successfully entered lunar orbit on April 3, 2026. The mission, which lifted off from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, marks another giant step in India's quest to become a leading space power.

What Makes Chandrayaan-4 Special?

Unlike its predecessors, Chandrayaan-4 carries a sophisticated sample-return module designed to collect lunar soil and bring it back to Earth — a feat achieved by only a handful of nations. The mission also carries a small rover capable of drilling 3 metres below the lunar surface.

Scientists believe the mission will unlock crucial data about water ice deposits near the lunar south pole — a resource that could one day fuel deep space missions and even permanent lunar settlements.

What's Next?

Over the next 30 days, the spacecraft will gradually lower its orbit before the lander separates and attempts a soft touchdown in the Shackleton Crater region. If successful, India will become only the 4th country to achieve a successful lunar landing — and the first to land near the south pole twice!