Chandrayaan-3 Mission reportedly Featured computer generated visuals

The Chandrayaan-3 mission, India’s landmark lunar landing project, has sparked widespread discussion—not just for its scientific achievement, but also for the visuals shared with the public. A growing debate questions whether some of the images and videos released by ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) are computer-generated imagery (CGI) rather than real photographs from the lunar surface.

Why Are CGI Visuals Used in Space Missions?

• Communication & Education:
  • CGI helps explain complex missions to the public, making technical details accessible and engaging.
• Simulation & Planning:
  • Before actual landings, agencies use CGI to simulate procedures, train teams, and visualize potential challenges.
• Filling Gaps:
  • Sometimes, real-time footage isn’t available due to technical limitations, so CGI fills in to illustrate key moments.

Chandrayaan-3: What Was Real and What Was CGI?

• Official ISRO Footage:
  • ISRO released both real images from Chandrayaan-3’s cameras and CGI animations to demonstrate the landing sequence and rover deployment.
• Public Confusion:
  • Some viewers mistook CGI simulations for actual lunar footage, leading to claims that the mission visuals were “fake.”
• Clarifications:
  • ISRO and science communicators clarified which visuals were simulated and which were captured on the Moon.

How to Identify CGI vs. Real Space Images

• CGI Features:
  • Highly polished, smooth surfaces
  • Perfect lighting and shadows
  • Lack of dust, scratches, or real-world imperfections
• Real Images:
  • Grainy or low-resolution
  • Irregular lighting due to harsh lunar conditions
  • Visible dust, shadows, and artifacts

Why This Debate Matters

• Public Trust:
  • Transparency about which visuals are CGI helps maintain public trust in space agencies.
• Science Communication:
  • Clear labeling of images as “simulation” or “actual footage” is essential for informed public understanding.

The Role of Social Media

• Viral Claims:
  • Social media platforms amplified the CGI claim, sometimes without context, fueling skepticism.
• Fact-Checking:
  • Science journalists and ISRO officials responded with clarifications and educational content.

Key Takeaways

• Chandrayaan-3’s mission included both real and CGI visuals for different purposes.
• CGI is a standard tool in space communication, not a sign of deception.
• Clear communication is crucial to prevent misunderstandings and conspiracy theories