Science & TechnologySource: The Hindu
Radar Evidence of Subsurface Ice Detected on Moon by Chandrayaan-2
Saturday, 30 May 2026
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Recent findings from the Chandrayaan-2 mission have revealed radar evidence of subsurface ice on the Moon's south polar region, crucial for future lunar exploration. This discovery is significant for UPSC aspirants, especially for General Studies Paper 3, focusing on space technology and its applications. Last Updated: 30-05-2026
Key Facts About Radar Evidence of Subsurface Ice Detected on Moon
- Chandrayaan-2 is India's second lunar mission, launched by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) in July 2019.
- The mission's DFSAR payload is a microwave imaging instrument operating in L-band and S-band frequencies.
- The study focused on doubly shadowed craters in permanently shadowed regions, with temperatures around 25 Kelvin.
- Radar signatures indicated possible subsurface ice beneath four doubly shadowed craters, with the strongest evidence in a 1.1 km-wide crater inside the Faustini crater.
- Circular Polarization Ratio (CPR) values greater than 1 and Degree of Polarization (DOP) values lower than 0.13 were key indicators of subsurface ice.
- The crater within Faustini displayed lobate-rim morphology, suggesting penetration of subsurface ice.
India's Lunar Exploration and Strategic Importance
The detection of subsurface ice on the Moon is a significant milestone in India's lunar exploration efforts. It aligns with India's strategic goals of advancing space technology and enhancing its position in international space exploration. The findings from Chandrayaan-2 contribute to global scientific knowledge and bolster India's reputation as a key player in space research.
UPSC Relevance
- GS Paper 3: Space technology and its applications, developments in science and technology.
- Prelims: Questions could focus on the objectives and findings of Chandrayaan-2, DFSAR technology, and subsurface ice detection methods.
- Mains: Analytical themes could include the significance of lunar exploration for resource utilization and India's role in international space missions.
FAQ Section
- What is the significance of detecting subsurface ice on the Moon? The detection of subsurface ice is crucial for future lunar exploration, as it can provide water resources for sustained human presence and fuel for space missions.
- Why is Chandrayaan-2 important for India's space program? Chandrayaan-2 is a testament to India's growing capabilities in space exploration, providing valuable data and enhancing India's position in the global space community.
- What are the key features of the DFSAR payload? The DFSAR payload is a microwave imaging instrument operating in L-band and S-band frequencies, designed to study the Moon's surface and subsurface features.
Detailed Coverage
- Chandrayaan-2 detects radar evidence of subsurface ice on the Moon.
- Conducted by scientists from the Physical Research Laboratory in Ahmedabad.
- Utilizes the Dual Frequency Synthetic Aperture Radar (DFSAR) payload.
- DFSAR is the first fully polarimetric synthetic aperture radar for lunar studies.
- Study focused on doubly shadowed craters in permanently shadowed regions.
- Conditions in these regions are around 25 Kelvin, ideal for ice preservation.
- Radar signatures suggest subsurface ice beneath four craters.
- Strongest evidence found in a 1.1 km-wide crater inside Faustini crater.
- Circular Polarization Ratio (CPR) values greater than 1 indicate potential ice.
- Degree of Polarization (DOP) values lower than 0.13 are also indicators.
- Morphological evidence shows lobate-rim morphology in Faustini crater.
- Impact may have penetrated subsurface ice.
- Findings assist in identifying potential ice-bearing sites.
- Important for future lunar exploration and landing missions.
- Insights are crucial for in-situ resource utilization.
- Recent findings are significant for future exploration efforts.
Science & Technology