- By Kamakshi Bishnoi
- Mon, 09 Feb 2026 04:48 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has achieved a major milestone by identifying a landing site near the Moon’s South Pole for its upcoming Chandrayaan-4 mission.
Based on images obtained from previous lunar missions, particularly the Chandrayaan-2 orbiter, scientists have identified Mons Mouton (MM-4) as the safest potential landing site.
Mons Mouton is a nearly flat mountain rising about 6,000 metres above the lunar surface, located near the Moon’s South Pole. Due to its favourable terrain, it is considered the most suitable landing site for Chandrayaan-4, though the final decision will be taken at the time of launch.
According to ISRO scientists, one of the main reasons for selecting this site is its prolonged exposure to sunlight. In addition, there is a strong possibility of the presence of water ice in the region.
According to media reports, ISRO scientists presented this study at the Lunar and Planetary Science Conference (LPSC) 2026. They stated that images captured by the camera onboard the Chandrayaan-2 orbiter were used to identify the landing site.
The camera is capable of imaging the lunar surface at a resolution of 32 centimetres per pixel, allowing scientists to clearly observe craters, slopes, plains, and surface textures.
Why was MM-4 chosen as the landing site?
- MM-4 safest landing site: After evaluating four potential landing zones in the Mons Mouton region, MM-4 was found to be the safest.
- Slope very favourable: The average slope at the site is around five degrees, while the lander can safely operate on slopes of up to 10 degrees.
- Minimal risk of large boulders: Most boulders in the region are smaller than 0.3 metres, significantly reducing the risk of obstruction or damage during landing.
- Long duration of sunlight available: The MM-4 site is expected to receive continuous sunlight for 11-12 days, which is beneficial for power generation and mission operations.
- Uninterrupted communication with Earth: Radio communication from this region remains stable and uninterrupted, ensuring smooth contact with Earth throughout the mission.
Chandrayaan-4 is designed to bring soil and rock samples back from the Moon.
ALSO READ: 'Won't Create Impediments In SIR Completion, States Must Understand': CJI Tells Bengal Govt
The Rs 2,104-crore Chandrayaan-4 mission will use two separate launch vehicles. The spacecraft will include a propulsion module, descent module, ascent module, transfer module, and a re-entry module.
The descent and ascent modules will land on the lunar surface, collect samples, and launch them into lunar orbit, from where the samples will be transferred to the re-entry module for return to Earth.