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Chandrayaan-3's Epic Lunar Landing: A Moment of Pride for Indians Worldwide
PC: PTI
Chandrayaan-3, India's latest lunar exploration mission, has etched its name in history with a triumphant soft landing on the moon's south pole. This mission, a part of the Chandrayaan program by ISRO, features the Vikram lander and the Pragyan rover, similar to the Chandrayaan-2 setup. The propulsion module acts as an orbiter. Launched on July 14, 2023, the lander and rover gracefully touched down near the lunar south pole on August 23, 2023. This milestone achievement makes India the first nation to successfully execute a lunar south pole landing.
The Remarkable Soft Landing
Chandrayaan-3's soft landing was a feat of engineering brilliance, demanding precise control of the lander's speed and trajectory during its lunar descent. The lander executed a complex transformation, transitioning from a high-speed horizontal orientation to a vertical one. Then, employing its thrusters, it gently slowed down and navigated past any potential landing site obstacles. This graceful descent underlined India's technological prowess and scientific excellence in space exploration.
Global Celebrations by the Indian Diaspora
The Indian diaspora, spanning over 32 million people across 200 countries, celebrated Chandrayaan-3's historic soft landing with immense pride and joy. Indians residing abroad tuned in to the live coverage of this monumental mission via ISRO's official website, YouTube channel, and various media outlets. Let's explore how some countries hosted gatherings to watch this event:
1. United States of America: The Indian Embassy in Washington, DC organized a special screening of Chandrayaan-3's lunar landing. Distinguished guests, including senior officials from NASA, the US State Department, US Congress, think tanks, academic institutions, and media, graced the event. Cultural performances and speeches by prominent Indian-Americans added to the festivities.
2. United Arab Emirates: The Indian Consulate in Dubai hosted a live screening of the lunar landing at its premises. Hundreds of Indians from Dubai and other emirates gathered to witness and cheer for India's lunar milestone. The event included a quiz competition on India's space program and showcased posters and models related to Chandrayaan-3.
3. Saudi Arabia: The Indian Embassy in Riyadh arranged a live telecast of Chandrayaan-3's landing in its auditorium. A considerable number of Indians working in Saudi Arabia were present to witness this historic moment, expressing their admiration for ISRO's achievement. An ISRO scientist also presented on India's space program during the event.
4. Malaysia: The High Commission of India in Kuala Lumpur organized a live streaming of the lunar landing at its cultural center. Over 500 Indians residing in Malaysia attended the event, enthusiastically applauding India's lunar accomplishment. The event was complemented by a cultural program showcasing India's rich diversity and heritage.
5. United Kingdom: The Indian High Commission in London hosted a live viewing of Chandrayaan-3's landing at its Nehru Centre. Indians from London and various parts of the UK came together to celebrate India's remarkable feat in space exploration. The event featured a panel discussion on India's space program, with experts from ISRO, the UK Space Agency, Imperial College London, and University College London.
6. Australia: In Sydney, Australia, a group of Indian-origin students from the University of New South Wales (UNSW) organised a watch party for the Chandrayaan-3 landing at the university auditorium. They invited other students and faculty members to join them and witness the historic moment. They also displayed posters and banners with information and facts about the Chandrayaan-3 mission and ISRO.
These instances illustrate how the Indian diaspora across the globe embraced the live coverage of Chandrayaan-3. Many other nations saw similar fervor and support for India's lunar mission. This monumental event not only signifies India's space prowess but also unites Indians worldwide in a shared moment of pride and accomplishment.
