Previous Year Question
With reference to “Lunar Polar Exploration Mission” (LUPEX), which of the following statements is/are correct?
This is an India–Japan partnership for their joint moon mission which shall be launched in the future.
JAXA is responsible for developing the lander for the mission, while ISRO is handling the rover and launch vehicle.
Select the correct answer from the codes given below:
Only 2
Neither 1 nor 2
Only 1
Both 1 and 2
Correct Answer: C
Detailed Solution
The Lunar Polar Exploration Mission (LUPEX) is a joint lunar exploration mission of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) of India and the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) of Japan. Its primary objective is to study the presence, quantity, distribution, and physical states of Water Ice in the Moon's south polar region.
Statement 1 is correct. LUPEX is a joint lunar mission between India and Japan. In 2024, it was a proposed future mission. Its objective is to land near the Moon's south pole and scientifically investigate Water Ice and other Volatiles present there. Water Ice can remain preserved for long periods in Permanently Shadowed Craters located in the Moon's polar regions because of their extremely low temperatures.
Statement 2 is incorrect. The responsibilities of ISRO and JAXA in the LUPEX mission are opposite to those given in the statement. ISRO is responsible for the development and operation of the Lander, while JAXA is responsible for the development and operation of the Rover and the H3 Launch Vehicle. This division of responsibilities is confirmed by JAXA's official mission description.
Responsibilities of the two space agencies in the mission:
Space agency | Major responsibility |
ISRO — India | Development and operation of the Lander |
JAXA — Japan | Development and operation of the Rover and H3 Launch Vehicle |
The Rover planned for LUPEX will travel across the lunar surface and collect scientific information from different locations. It is planned to carry drilling equipment for obtaining samples of Lunar Regolith and scientific instruments for studying Water Ice.
The search for Water Ice in the Moon's south polar region is scientifically important. It can help in understanding the sources and distribution of water on the Moon and its geological history. In future human lunar missions, available water could also be used for drinking water, oxygen, and the production of Rocket Propellant.