What if there are hidden treasures buried deep in the darkest corners of the Moon unseen by sunlight and untouched for billions of years? That’s exactly what India and Japan are hoping to discover in their exciting new space mission, Chandrayaan-5, also known as LUPEX (Lunar Polar Exploration). This collaboration is a leap into one of the most mysterious places in our solar system: the Moon’s south pole. 

This region is of particular interest to scientists because it may contain water ice trapped in deep shadowed craters. Such frozen water could be a vital resource for future lunar bases, supporting both astronauts and the possibility of sustainable moon missions. It’s a bold and ambitious project, led by ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) and JAXA (Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency).

When’s the Launch? And What’s Going?

Mark your calendars for 2027–28, when the mission is expected to launch aboard Japan’s next-generation H3 rocket, a heavy-lift launch vehicle designed for reliability and efficiency. This mission will carry a lander and a rover, both tailor-made for the Moon’s harsh terrain. India is taking the lead on developing the lander, which will safely deliver the rover to the rugged lunar surface. 

Meanwhile, Japan will provide a highly sophisticated rover, equipped with cutting-edge technology designed to withstand extreme cold and lunar dust. Unlike earlier rovers, this one will be able to operate during the lunar night of 14 Earth days and temperature below -180°C. The rover will begin its 100-day adventure of navigating slopes, analyzing rock samples, and sending valuable data back to Earth. 

Not Just Two Countries – It’s a Team Earth Effort!

Though India and Japan are leading the mission, they’re not alone. LUPEX is an international collaboration, with key contributions from other major space agencies including NASA (United States) and ESA (European Space Agency). NASA is expected to contribute advanced neutron detectors to sniff out water molecules and study the Moon’s surface composition. 

ESA may assist with communication systems and navigation support, ensuring the mission stays on track and connected to Earth. It’s a true “Team Earth” initiative of humanity working together to explore beyond borders.

Why It’s More Than Just a Mission!

Recently, top scientists and engineers from India and Japan gathered in Bengaluru for a key planning meeting, finalizing the technical and scientific goals of the mission. The data from LUPEX could help us understand the origin of the Moon’s water, guide future landing sites for crewed missions, and even pave the way for permanent human settlements on the Moon. 

Even more exciting, this mission represents a critical step in India’s vision to land its first astronauts on the Moon by 2040, as outlined by ISRO’s long-term roadmap. In many ways, Chandrayaan-5 isn’t just a mission, it’s a message that curiosity unites us and science empowers us.