In a daring move that sparks curiosity, ISRO has not only achieved but surpassed its objectives with the Chandrayaan-3 mission, leaving enthusiasts questioning the agency's next moves with the tantalizing Chandrayaan-4. By returning the Chandrayaan-3 Propulsion Module to Earth orbit, ISRO has not just closed a chapter but has set the stage for an even more ambitious lunar exploration venture.

The manoeuvres executed by the Propulsion Module for the Chandrayaan-3 mission have served as a practical rehearsal for the Reentry Module planned for Chandrayaan-4. ISRO scientists now possess invaluable, hands-on experience in returning a spacecraft from the Moon's orbit to Earth's orbit—a capability essential for future lunar missions, including the anticipated human mission to the Moon by 2040.

Chandrayaan-3, designed as a follow-up to Chandrayaan-2, not only achieved its primary task but exceeded expectations. Conducting a short hop on the lunar surface and successfully returning the Propulsion Module to Earth orbit showcased ISRO's versatility and innovative mission planning.

The unexpected short hop on September 04, 2023, demonstrated crucial capabilities for Chandrayaan-4. The upcoming mission aims to be a sample return mission, requiring the Ascender element to lift off from the lunar surface and dock with a Reentry Module for the return journey to Earth Orbit. ISRO's successful return of the Propulsion Module signals its capability to handle the Reentry Module, carrying precious lunar samples.

Chandrayaan-4's complexities, including lunar surface liftoff, sample return, and orbital docking, will be tested in the upcoming Space Docking Experiment (SPADEX) mission. These capabilities are integral to ISRO's ambitious goal of sending humans to the Moon's surface by 2040, a directive from Prime Minister Narendra Modi.