Shukrayaan-1: What makes ISRO's Venus mission so remarkable?

Venus, Earth's enigmatic twin, has been a source of fascination for scientists due to its unique atmosphere and extreme conditions.

Shukrayaan-1 mission launch date has been set by ISRO for December, 2024 with certain objectives, including the study of Venus' surface and atmosphere.

Shukrayaan-1 mission is a milestone for ISRO, known for its ambitious objectives and innovative technology. It will last for four years and weigh 2,500 kg at launch.

ISRO is collaborating with countries like France, Russia, Sweden, and Germany for this mission.

Shukrayaan-1 mission will explore surface stratigraphy, atmosphere chemistry, and the interaction of Venus' ionosphere with solar irradiance.

Venus, Earth's "twin," is the hottest and most volcanically active planet, with a runaway greenhouse effect. Its size is almost similar to Earth's.

Venus boasts a scorching surface temperature of 460°C and an atmosphere 90 times denser than Earth's, creating an inhospitable environment.

Venus rotates slowly in the opposite direction of most planets, making its day-night cycle last 117 Earth days.

Shukrayaan-1 mission’s science payload includes Indian and international instruments that aim to explore Venus comprehensively.

Venus challenges our understanding of planetary science and astrobiology. Scientists speculate on the possibility of life in its upper atmosphere, but the mystery continues.