The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has released a three-dimensional (3D) “anaglyph” image of the Chandrayaan-3 Vikram lander on the Moon’s South Pole. This visualization showcases the lunar surface in a striking cyan hue and provides a three-dimensional view of the region.
The anaglyph image was created using NavCam stereo images captured onboard the Pragyaan rover. It combines a left image within the red channel and a right image within the blue and green channels to achieve the 3D effect. Viewers can use red and cyan glasses to experience the full three-dimensional effect.
ISRO explained that anaglyphs are a simple way to visualize objects or terrain in three dimensions from stereo or multi-view images. The difference in perspective between the left and right images creates the stereo effect, giving the visual impression of depth.
The release of the 3D anaglyph image follows ISRO’s announcement that the Vikram Lander was placed into sleep mode on Monday morning. During this period, the data collected by the lander’s payloads is received on Earth, and the payloads are temporarily switched off.
ISRO expects that the Vikram Lander and Pragyaan rover will be reawakened around September 22, 2023. This is a significant development as India successfully achieved a historic feat by successfully landing the Chandrayaan-3 lander module on the Moon’s South Pole on August 23, 2023.
This achievement marked India as the fourth country in the world, after the United States, China, and Russia, to successfully land on the lunar surface. The Chandrayaan-3 mission’s success came after the Chandrayaan-2 mission faced disappointment with the crash landing of the Vikram Lander four years ago.
ISRO’s lunar exploration endeavors have been a source of pride for India and have contributed valuable data and insights about the Moon’s surface and geological characteristics. The release of the 3D anaglyph image allows space enthusiasts and scientists to explore the lunar landscape in greater detail and provides a glimpse into ISRO’s ongoing efforts in space exploration and technology development.