Chandrayaan-2 detects solar events' impact on the Moon's atmosphere.
India’s Chandrayaan-2 lunar orbiter has achieved a historic first by observing the effects of Coronal Mass Ejections (CMEs) from the Sun on the Moon’s exosphere. Utilizing the CHACE-2 instrument, the orbiter documented a significant increase in the total pressure of the lunar exosphere during a CME event on May 10, 2024. This groundbreaking observation, which aligns with theoretical predictions, suggests that solar emissions can dramatically influence lunar atmospheric conditions, crucial for future lunar exploration and base construction. The findings not only advance scientific understanding of the Moon’s environment but also underscore the importance of accounting for solar phenomena in the planning of lunar missions, highlighting India’s leadership in space research and exploration.