Distance from earth to the moon is estimated at 3,84,000 km. Thus, Chandrayaan-2 successfully covered 3,83,998 km. India’s rocket to the moon this time was the first ever attempt at a soft-landing on the lunar South Pole. Even the ‘superpowers’ are yet to try that. ISRO lost contact with lander Vikram minutes before it was supposed to touch the lunar surface. But remember, Chandrayaan-2 Orbiter is still operational. *                             *                             * ‘Space is Hard’ “We choose to go to the moon… and do the other things, not because they are easy, but because they are hard…” (Excerpts from a speech by the then US president John F. Kennedy at Rice Stadium in Houston, Texas on September 12, 1962. It is said that he intended to persuade Americans to support the Apollo programme for a manned landing). *                             *                             * ‘A successful failure’ Apollo 13, NASA's third crewed mission to the

It was the early nineties – there was no electricity and fuel supply was very limited to feed the generator – the hotel on a hillock overlooking the southern fringe of Kabul was dark. But for the few candles, various flashlights and makeshift lamps, total blackout could have taken over the once plush hotel – part of a renowned international chain. Thus, I would sit by the window and watch the horizon light up with firepower after dark; unaware that in a few years, this part of the hotel would almost crumble when the Taliban militia advanced. Most of the rooms were been occupied by long-haired and bearded, multi-pocket-vest-wearing, Kalashnikov-carrying mujahideen. Each wanted to be addressed as ‘commander’. Food was served in a large hall, with the menu comprising a lamb broth and large, thick bread and/or ‘Kabooli’ – rice fried with some vegetable and dry fruits sprinkled over. The residents shared this feast three times a day; followed – or preceded, or accompanied – by