The landing on the lunar surface of Chandrayaan-3 was a step forward as they successfully detached the Vikram lander from the propulsion module of the spacecraft. This takes with it the Lander Module, which includes both the lander and rover (Pragyan), which is soon to be lowered closer towards the moon's surface in anticipation of joining forces on August 23 at the lunar south pole.

This achievement comes in the wake of India’s previous lunar efforts, particularly its success with Chandrayaan-1, its maiden lunar probe launched back in 2008. Chandrayaan-1 was instrumental not only in enhancing our understanding of what the moon is characterized by but also in spurring remarkable science that led to the confirmation of water molecules being found on the surface of Mantharayan, among others.

The Vikram lander of Chandrayaan-3 recently made available its first image for public display after it successfully landed on the moon’s south pole. The Landing Imager Camera captured an image that included a leg and shadow. That highlighted how much care was taken while choosing this mission site because lunar environments experience huge temperature swings over the course of any 24-hour day.

One intriguing feature of the mission Chandrayaan-3 provides is the ChaSTE (Chandra’s Surface Thermophysical Experiment) probe. This measures the temperature profiles of lunar topsoil and thus gives insights into the thermal behaviour of the moon's surface. It has led to knowledge regarding substantial temperature differences between a depth of 10 cm on the Lunar South Pole-Aitken Basin as compared with its surface.

Furthermore, as the mission continues, Chandrayaan-3 will initiate more studies and observations to further our understanding of moon characteristics. With developments such as the ongoing activities of Chandrayaan-3 and the successful detachment of the Vikram lander made recently, this particular mission is definitely going to bring forth great contributions for lunar exploration and scientific research.