The Pragyan rover installed in Chandrayaan-2 mission had how many wheels?
6
Understanding the Chandrayaan-2 Pragyan Rover's Wheels
The Chandrayaan-2 mission was an important lunar exploration mission by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). A key component of this mission was the Pragyan rover. The Pragyan rover was designed to be a semi-autonomous vehicle that would explore the lunar surface near the landing site.
The question asks specifically about the number of wheels the Pragyan rover had. Mobile robotic explorers, especially those designed for challenging terrain like the Moon's surface, require robust mobility systems. The number of wheels and the type of suspension system are critical for navigating obstacles, slopes, and uneven ground.
The Pragyan rover was equipped with a specific number of wheels to ensure stability and mobility on the lunar surface. Let's look at the common configurations for planetary rovers.
- Rovers often use multiple wheels for better weight distribution and traction.
- Fewer wheels might be simpler but less stable on rough terrain.
- More wheels, combined with a flexible suspension system, help the rover overcome larger obstacles.
The Pragyan rover utilized a suspension system known as the rocker-bogie mechanism. This system is commonly used by planetary rovers because it allows the rover to maintain contact with the ground even when traversing significant obstacles. The rocker-bogie system typically uses multiple wheels connected in a specific configuration.
Considering the design requirements for navigating the lunar surface as part of the Chandrayaan-2 mission, the Pragyan rover was designed to have six wheels. This configuration, combined with the rocker-bogie system, provided the necessary stability and mobility to perform its scientific tasks on the Moon.
Therefore, the Pragyan rover installed in the Chandrayaan-2 mission had 6 wheels.
Pragyan Rover Mobility System Details
The six wheels of the Pragyan rover were part of its sophisticated mobility system. Here's a breakdown:
- Number of Wheels: 6
- Suspension Type: Rocker-Bogie system
- Purpose: To ensure wheels remain in contact with the ground over uneven terrain and obstacles.
- Wheel Steering: Some wheels could be steered, allowing the rover to turn.
- Drive: Each wheel had its own motor, providing independent power for movement.
This 6-wheeled setup with the rocker-bogie mechanism is a proven design for planetary exploration, used on other successful rovers like NASA's Mars rovers.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Total Number of Wheels | 6 |
| Suspension System | Rocker-Bogie |
| Drive System | Independent motor per wheel |
| Steering | Capable of steering for maneuvers |
Revision Table: Chandrayaan-2 and Pragyan Rover
| Component | Description | Role |
|---|---|---|
| Orbiter | Remained in lunar orbit | Remote sensing, communication relay |
| Vikram Lander | Intended to soft-land on Moon | Carried the rover |
| Pragyan Rover | 6-wheeled robotic vehicle | On-site surface exploration (Chemistry, Mineralogy) |
Additional Information: Chandrayaan-2 Mission Goals
Beyond deploying the Pragyan rover, the Chandrayaan-2 mission had several scientific objectives, including:
- Mapping the lunar surface using the orbiter's instruments.
- Studying the composition of the Moon, including the search for water ice, using both orbiter and rover data.
- Understanding the lunar exosphere.
- Demonstrating India's capability for soft landing on the lunar surface.
The Pragyan rover was equipped with instruments like the Alpha Particle X-ray Spectrometer (APXS) and Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscope (LIBS) to analyze the composition of the lunar soil and rocks.
Similar Questions
Consider the following statements about James Webb Space Telescope (JWST):
1. It is the largest observatory ever launched into space.
2. It has been developed by NASA in partnership with the European Space Agency and the Canadian Space Agency.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Which one of the following statements is true for James Webb Space Telescope launched in December 2021?
Photo 51 refers to an image of
Which of the following statements about Bit coin is/are correct?
1. It is a decentralized virtual currency.
2. It is generated through complex computer software systems.
3. The Reserve Bank of India recognized it as a legal tender in January 2016.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:Which one of the following planets was explored by Cassini Mission launched by NASA, which ended in September 2017?
Which one of the following statements is not correct?
Which one of the following statements about reusable space vehicle of ISRO is not correct?
Which of the following statements about India’s scientific and research mission in Antarctica is/are correct?
1. The first scientific base station in Antarctica was Dakshin Gangotri.
2. Dakshin Gangotri is now being used as a supply base and transit camp.
3. The Maitri station is manned throughout the year for scientific activities.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:To study which one of the following was a spacecraft launched that would be farthest from the Sun and would run exclusively on solar power?
India's maiden human space mission will be launched in 2023. What is its name?
Important Questions from Science and Technology
What technology is bitcoin built on?
Which of the following two statements is / are correct?
a. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) generates thin section images of any part of the human body.
b. CT Scan is superior to X-rays and MRI.
The term ‘ACE2’ is talked about in the context of
With reference to recent developments regarding ‘Recombinant Vector Vaccines’, consider the following statements :
1. Genetic engineering is applied in the development of these vaccines.
2. Bacteria and viruses are used as vectors.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
India's first human space mission "Gaganyaan" will be launched in which year?
