"Global Space Powers Compete in Lunar Landings and Orbit Adjustments"

Russia and India are set to compete in a race to put landers on the Moon's south pole region, with Russia's Luna-25 lander scheduled to touch down on August 21 and India's Chandrayaan-3 on August 23. Both missions aim to study the minerals in the lunar regolith and search for signs of water ice. The competition reflects the geopolitical reality of today's space exploration, with more countries and commercial entities involved. While Russia's space program has faced setbacks, India's program has been on the rise, and a successful lunar landing would elevate its stature as a capable space power. The US and China have already been active on the Moon, with plans for permanent lunar bases and ongoing missions.