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Indian scientists have slowed down lunar probe Chandrayaan I, allowing it to be “captured” by the moon’s gravitational pull.
New Delhi says the moon could not have captured Chandrayaan I on its own, accusing rogue elements within the Pakistani military intelligence service of involvement.
If Pakistan does not cease covert support for the moon, Indian officials say that they may commit troops to the disputed region.
Chandrayaan I will map the moon’s surface. In future, it may also take photographs at street level.
The launch vehicle, PSLV-XL, uses hydroxyl-terminated polybutadiene fuel, has a first-stage thrust of 4860 kilonewtons and a test batting average of 54.25.
The probe contains an Energetic Neutral Analyzer, X-ray Spectrometer, six-speaker stereo system and leather trim. But some have questioned the project’s lavish 3.8 billion rupee (US$6.95) cost. In this poverty-stricken nation, how can politicians fund a space programme when so many ordinary Indians are without the means to completely level Pakistan?
Chandrayaan II, scheduled for a 2010 launch, will use knowledge gained during the current mission to the barren, hostile lunar environment to send an unmanned rover to Kashmir.
