The fifth and final lunar bound orbit maneuver for Chandrayaan-2 spacecraft was performed successfully today (September 01, 2019) beginning at 1821 hrs India Standard Time (IST) as planned, using the onboard propulsion system.

The duration of the maneuver was 52 seconds. The orbit achieved is 74 x 79 miles (119 x 127 kilometers). All spacecraft parameters are normal, reports the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO).

Lander separation

The next operation is the separation of the Vikram Lander from the Chandrayaan-2 Orbiter, which is scheduled on September 02, 2019, between 1245 – 1345 hrs (IST).

Following this, there will be two deorbit maneuvers of Vikram to prepare for its landing in the south polar region of the Moon.

Touchdown time line

Tentative plan for future operations after today’s maneuver are as follows, according to the ISRO:

Vikram Separation September 2, 2019; 12:45 – 13:45 IST

September 2, 2019; 12:45 – 13:45 IST Deorbit 1: September 3, 2019; 09:00 – 10:00; 109 x 120 kilometers

September 3, 2019; 09:00 – 10:00; 109 x 120 kilometers Deorbit 2: September 4, 2019; 03:00 – 04:00; 36 x 110 kilometers

September 4, 2019; 03:00 – 04:00; 36 x 110 kilometers Powered Descent: September 07, 2019; Vikram Touchdown; September 07, 2019; 01:30 – 02:30 IST

The Vikram Lander of Chandrayaan 2 is named after Dr Vikram A. Sarabhai, the Father of the Indian Space Program. It is designed to function for one lunar day, which is equivalent to about 14 Earth days.