Finally, the count down for the launching of Chandrayaan-1 has begun at 5.22 am on 22nd October and over 1,000 scientists are busy giving it its final touches despite heavy rains at Sriharikota. This mission is the maiden venture of India to the moon.

Heavy rains are no doubt generating some worry whether the launch will take place on time. Of course, scientists are still confident that it will be launched on time. At the same time they feel that cyclonic storms could cause a problem.

The rocket, which is 44.4 metre in size is known as Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) happens to be protected from rain. Out of the 49-hour final countdown, almost 35 hours were devoted to propellant filling as well as managing the second and last stage of the four-staged rocket.

source:TOI Oct.21st 2008