India's third Moon mission commences as Chandrayaan-3 lifts off from Sriharikota

If the mission touches success, then India will become the fourth country  after Russia, the United States, and China to  achieve a controlled landing on the moon.

Chandrayaan 3 aims to reach Moon in 40 days.

It was launched on a Launch Vehicle Mark-3 rocket from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh.

The primary objectives of Chandrayaan-3 are threefold, first, to demonstrate Safe and Soft Landing on the Lunar surface; second, to demonstrate Rover roving on the moon; and third is to conduct in-situ scientific experiments.

Chandrayaan-3 is a follow-on mission of Chandrayaan-2 and is aimed at demonstrating India’s capability in soft landing and roving on the surface of the Moon or the Lunar surface.

Chandrayaan-2 was launched on September 6, 2019, but it could not yield the desired result.

Noting the moment, Modi tweeted: "Chandrayaan-3 scripts a new chapter in India's space odyssey. It soars high, elevating the dreams and ambitions of a every Indian. This momentous achievement is a testament to our scientists' relentless dedication. I salute their spirit and ingenuity!"

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is currently in France, earlier in the day tweeted to reflect the country's emotion attached to the mission.

He said: "14th July 2023 will always be etched in golden letters as far as India’s space sector is concerned. Chandrayaan-3, our third lunar mission, will embark on its journey. This remarkable mission will carry the hopes and dreams of our nation."