India is advancing its lunar exploration program with a clear roadmap that includes Chandrayaan-6, 7, and 8, as part of its preparations for a human mission to the Moon by 2040. The plans were unveiled at the National Space Day gathering, where ISRO officials laid out the mission sequence that will gradually establish the technology and infrastructure needed for a crewed lunar landing.

The government has already approved Chandrayaan-4 and Chandrayaan-5, which will mark significant milestones in India’s space journey. Chandrayaan-4 is designed as a sample return mission, bringing lunar rocks and soil back to Earth for the first time in Indian history. This will give scientists direct access to Moon material, allowing for more in-depth planetary science

Chandrayaan-5, also known as the Lupxe mission, would be carried out in collaboration with Japan. The project will deploy an Indian-built lander and a Japanese-built rover, which is expected to be the heaviest rover ever sent to the lunar surface. 

Looking ahead, Chandrayaan-6, 7, and 8 will focus on building essential infrastructure like lunar navigation, communication, and relay systems. These missions will be important in ensuring precision, reliability, and safety for future humans landing on the Moon.