India's Mars Orbiter Mission (MOM) Success: First Attempt
India made history by successfully sending its Mars Orbiter Mission (MOM) to Mars on its very first attempt, a remarkable achievement in space exploration.
Source: GNews ISRO SpaceIndia's Mars Orbiter Mission (MOM), also known as Mangalyaan, successfully entered Mars orbit on September 24, 2014. This made India the first Asian nation to achieve Martian orbit and the first country globally to succeed in its maiden attempt. The mission was launched by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh, on November 5, 2013. The total cost of the Mars Orbiter Mission was approximately $74 million (around 450 crore), making it one of the most cost-effective interplanetary missions ever. The Mars Orbiter Mission carried five scientific instruments to study the Martian surface, atmosphere, and mineral composition. Its success showcased India's growing capabilities in advanced space technology and engineering.
This event is crucial for competitive exams, especially for UPSC GS Paper III (Science & Technology) and SSC General Awareness. Aspirants should know about ISRO's achievements, India's space program milestones, and the specifics of the Mars Orbiter Mission. It highlights India's position in global space exploration and its focus on cost-effective technological solutions, which are important themes for policy and economic discussions.
- India's Mars Orbiter Mission (MOM) entered Mars orbit on September 24, 2014.
- India became the first Asian nation to reach Mars orbit.
- It was the first country worldwide to succeed in a Mars mission on its maiden attempt.
- The mission was launched by ISRO on November 5, 2013.
- The total cost of the Mars Orbiter Mission was approximately $74 million ( 450 crore).
- MOM carried five scientific instruments for Martian studies.
Also known as Mangalyaan, it is India's first interplanetary mission. Its primary objective was to demonstrate India's rocket launch systems, spacecraft building, and operational capabilities for deep-space missions. It also aimed to study the Martian surface features, morphology, mineralogy, and the Martian atmosphere using its onboard scientific instruments.
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is the national space agency of India, headquartered in Bengaluru. Founded in 1969, it operates under the Department of Space (DOS), which is directly overseen by the Prime Minister of India. ISRO is responsible for India's space program, including satellite launches, planetary exploration, and developing space-based applications.
Located in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh, it is the primary spaceport of ISRO. This centre is responsible for providing launch infrastructure for India's satellite launch vehicles, including the PSLV and GSLV. It plays a crucial role in India's space missions, serving as the base for launching various satellites and interplanetary probes.
Exams frequently ask about the launch year, key achievements (first Asian, first attempt success), the launch vehicle (PSLV), and the name of the mission (Mangalyaan). Focus on specific dates and figures.
Remember 'MOM' for Mars Orbiter Mission, and '2014' for its orbital insertion. MOM was a 'mom'entous success in 2014!
Frequently Asked Questions
When did India's Mars Orbiter Mission (MOM) reach Mars?
India's Mars Orbiter Mission (MOM), also known as Mangalyaan, successfully entered Mars orbit on September 24, 2014. This marked a historic moment for India's space program and global space exploration efforts.
What was the cost of India's Mars Orbiter Mission?
The Mars Orbiter Mission (MOM) cost approximately $74 million, which is about 450 crore. This made it one of the most economical interplanetary missions ever undertaken, highlighting ISRO's efficiency.
Which launch vehicle was used for the Mars Orbiter Mission?
The Mars Orbiter Mission (MOM) was launched using ISRO's Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) C25. The PSLV is a reliable and versatile launch vehicle known for its capability to place satellites into various orbits.