Top 5 Most Affordable Moon Missions: Exploring the moon has always fascinated humanity. From early observations to ambitious landings, missions to the moon require significant investments. However, some nations have managed to achieve remarkable milestones at surprisingly low costs. Here are the top five most affordable moon missions, showcasing how innovation and efficient planning can lead to success in space exploration.
Top 5 Most Affordable Moon Missions
Chandrayaan-3 of ISRO: Rs 615 CR (India)
India’s Chandrayaan-3 mission is proof of how effective planning and resource management can result in successful space exploration. Launched by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) in July 2023, this mission aimed to land on the lunar surface and conduct scientific research.
Chandrayaan-3 followed the footsteps of its predecessor, Chandrayaan-2, which faced some challenges during its landing attempt. The team learned from these experiences and made necessary adjustments to ensure success. The mission cost approximately Rs 615 crore, making it the most affordable lunar mission to date.
With its soft landing on the moon, Chandrayaan-3 showcased India’s growing capabilities in space technology and demonstrated that quality and efficiency can go hand in hand. The scientific instruments on board have been collecting valuable data about the lunar surface, enriching our understanding of the moon.
Luna 25 of Roscosmos: Rs 1,650 CR (Russia)
The Luna 25 mission, launched by Russia’s space agency Roscosmos, marked a return to lunar exploration. With a budget of around Rs 1,650 crore, this mission aimed to explore the moon’s south pole, a region believed to hold vast resources, including water ice.
Luna 25, which took flight in August 2023, was part of Russia’s effort to regain its historical prominence in space exploration. The mission aimed to study the lunar regolith and assess potential sites for future landers and human exploration. Despite facing some setbacks during its journey, Luna 25 demonstrated Russia’s commitment to lunar research.
The mission’s budget was comparatively lower than many of its predecessors, showcasing how nations can still pursue ambitious goals in space without exorbitant spending. The information gathered from Luna 25 will contribute to ongoing scientific discussions about the moon and its potential for future missions.
Chang’e 3 of CNSA: Rs 2,476 CR (China)
China’s Chang’e 3 mission, launched in December 2013, is another example of a successful and affordable lunar mission. With a total cost of about Rs 2,476 crore, it became China’s first successful soft landing on the moon.
Chang’e 3 carried a lander and a rover named Yutu, which means “Jade Rabbit” in Chinese. The mission’s goals included studying the moon’s surface and collecting data on its geological composition. The rover travelled across the lunar surface, sending back valuable images and information.
The success of Chang’e 3 established China as a key player in lunar exploration, and it laid the groundwork for future missions. The efficient use of resources and innovative technology helped keep costs down while achieving scientific objectives.
Apollo of NASA: Rs 17,249 CR (USA)
The Apollo program, initiated by NASA, is often hailed as one of the most iconic space exploration efforts. Though it cost approximately Rs 17,249 crore, which may seem high compared to the previous missions, it achieved extraordinary goals, including landing humans on the moon.
The first successful moon landing occurred with Apollo 11 in 1969, when astronauts Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin became the first humans to walk on the lunar surface. The Apollo missions not only advanced human knowledge about the moon but also inspired generations to dream about space exploration.
While the costs were higher than the other missions listed here, the Apollo program demonstrated the immense value of investing in space exploration. The technological advancements and scientific knowledge gained from Apollo paved the way for future space endeavours.
