The countdown had begun long before the numbers flashed on the digital screens. In a room filled with anticipation, engineers and scientists from India’s space program held their breath as the clock ticked down to zero. The moment they had been waiting for was finally here—the launch of Chandrayaan-2, a mission that would take India to uncharted territories on the Moon.
It was September 2019, and the world watched as the rocket pierced through the sky, leaving a trail of fiery ambition behind it. The mission was not just about reaching the Moon; it was about rewriting history. For India, this was the second attempt at lunar exploration, following the successful Chandrayaan-1 mission in 2008. But this time, the stakes were higher. The spacecraft would land on the south pole of the Moon, a region that had never been explored before.
As the days turned into weeks, tensions ran high. The landing module, Vikram, faced technical challenges during its descent. For a moment, it seemed like the mission might end in heartbreak, but against all odds, Vikram touched down safely on the lunar surface. The rover Pragyan rolled out, and the orbiter continued its journey around the Moon, capturing invaluable data.
The success of Chandrayaan-2 was more than just a scientific milestone. It was a beacon of hope for the Global South, proving that space exploration is not the domain of a select few. India’s achievement resonated deeply with young people across the country and beyond. For many, it was a reminder that progress is not confined by borders or resources.
Among those inspired were the women scientists who played pivotal roles in the mission. Dr. M. Annadurai, the mission director, and Dr. Nithya Rau, the deputy project director, became role models for girls aspiring to break into STEM fields. Their leadership was a silent rebellion against stereotypes that had long marginalized women in science.
The spacecraft’s discoveries were groundbreaking too. Chandrayaan-2 found evidence of water ice in the Moon’s south pole region—a find that could unlock new possibilities for human settlements on the Moon. These findings not only advanced lunar science but also positioned India as a key player in the global space race.
Back on Earth, the mission sparked a wave of innovation among students and young professionals. Hackathons, science fairs, and workshops popped up, encouraging the youth to think big. The narrative shifted from “Why should we care?” to “What can we achieve next?”
Chandrayaan-2’s legacy extends beyond its scientific contributions. It was a testament to human determination and the power of progressive values—showcasing that with vision and grit, anything is possible. As the world looks toward the future of space exploration, India’s journey reminds us that the frontiers of knowledge are boundless and accessible to all who dare to reach for them.
In the words of one young scientist, “If we can go to the Moon, we can achieve anything.” And with Chandrayaan-2, India proved it.
About the Author:
Aisha Hassan is Reporter & Photographer at our publication. Journalist and photographer with a focus on Middle Eastern youth and their cultural contributions. Aisha’s work bridges traditional and modern storytelling in the region.
Journalist and photographer with a focus on Middle Eastern youth and their cultural contributions. Aisha’s work bridges traditional and modern storytelling in the region.
Writer and researcher specializing in Asian arts and migration stories. Bella’s work explores how young Asians are shaping global culture through their experiences.
Reporter with a background in investigative journalism, focusing on human rights and social justice. Luis has worked across Latin America and Europe, uncovering stories that resonate globally.
Sarah is a seasoned journalist with over 15 years of experience in global news and media. She has led teams in some of the world’s most challenging reporting environments, bringing a vision for storytelling that connects cultures and empowers voices.