The primary objective of the LUPEX Mission, a collaboration between ISRO and JAXA, is to:
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: C
Explanation
Answer: Investigate the quantity and quality of water on the Moon and explore its dark side
Explanation: The LUPEX (Lunar Polar Exploration) Mission is a joint mission between ISRO (India) and JAXA (Japan). Its primary objective is to explore the Moon’s polar regions, especially to study the presence, distribution, and form of water (ice) in permanently shadowed regions.
It is particularly focused on understanding:
How much water is present on the Moon
The quality and form of lunar water (ice, hydroxyl, etc.)
Conditions in the lunar south pole, including permanently dark (shadowed) areas
This makes Option 3 correct.
Additional Key Points:
LUPEX is also called Chandrayaan-4 (proposed linkage in broader discussions, but officially LUPEX is separate collaboration)
JAXA provides the lunar lander and rover technology, while ISRO contributes science payloads and launch support
Target region: South Pole of the Moon
Importance: Water on Moon can support future human bases and fuel production (hydrogen & oxygen)
Builds upon findings of Chandrayaan-1, which first confirmed water molecules on the Moon
Potential Exam-Oriented Questions & Answers:
Question: What is the main focus of LUPEX mission?
Answer: To study water ice in the Moon’s polar regions.
Question: Why is lunar water important?
Answer: It can support future human habitation and produce rocket fuel.