India's Chandrayaan-3 unmanned spacecraft before launch. (Source: ISRO)

The Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) said on August 5 that the country had sent the unmanned Chandrayaan-3 spacecraft into the lunar orbit.

Chandrayaan-3 consists of a lander, a propulsion module and a lunar rover. The separation of the lander is scheduled for August 17 and the lunar landing is scheduled for 5:47 pm on August 23 (Indian time).

Chandrayaan-3 was launched at 2:35 p.m. on July 14 local time (ie 4:05 p.m. on July 14 Vietnam time).

On the same day, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi posted on social network X (formerly known as Twitter) affirming: "Chandrayaan-3 is creating a new chapter in India's space travel. The ship soaring into space, raising the dreams and ambitions of every Indian."

This important achievement, according to the Indian leader, is "a testament to the tireless dedication of our scientists. I salute their spirit and ingenuity!".

Chandrayaan-3 was developed at an investment of about $75 million. It is the first major mission since Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government announced policies to promote investment in private space exploration and business models related to satellite development and launch.