Chandrayaan-2 Makes First-Ever Observation of Sun’s Impact on the Moon

In News: Chandrayaan-2 Detects Effects of Solar Coronal Mass Ejection (CME) on Lunar Exosphere

Key Highlights:

1. Observation:
   • Chandrayaan-2’s CHACE-2 payload has for the first time observed the impact of a Coronal Mass Ejection (CME) from the Sun on the Moon.
   • The event occurred on May 10, 2024, when multiple CMEs were hurled towards the Moon.
2. Findings:
   • Dayside lunar exosphere pressure increased by over an order of magnitude.
   • Solar CME caused atoms to be knocked off the lunar surface, temporarily increasing the density of the lunar exosphere.
   • Observations match theoretical predictions but are first-time direct measurements.
3. Scientific Significance:
   • Provides new insights into lunar exosphere dynamics and space weather effects on the Moon.
   • Highlights challenges for future lunar bases, as CMEs can temporarily alter surface conditions.
4. Chandrayaan-2 Mission Overview:
   • Launched on July 22, 2019 from Sriharikota using GSLV-MkIII-M1.
   • Carried eight experiment payloads, including CHACE-2.
   • Orbiter successfully inserted into elliptical lunar orbit; Vikram lander lost communication during soft-landing attempt.
5. Implications for Lunar Science:
   • Helps understand interaction between solar activity and the Moon’s surface/exosphere.
   • Useful for planning human and robotic missions, ensuring safety from extreme space weather events.

Static Information:

• Payload: CHACE-2 (Chandra’s Atmospheric Composition Explorer-2)
• Observation Date: May 10, 2024
• Effect Observed: Increase in lunar exosphere pressure due to CME
• Significance: First direct observation of CME’s effect on the Moon
  
  Updated - October 19, 2025 07:44 pm | The Hindu