In a momentous stride in India’s space journey, the nation is gearing up for the launch of its maiden solar mission, Aditya-L1, following the triumphant Chandrayaan-3 moon mission. Set to take off today at 11:50 am from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh, this mission signifies India’s foray into solar space exploration.
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is at the helm of this groundbreaking endeavor. Aditya-L1, propelled by the PSLV-C57 rocket, aspires to become India’s premier solar space observatory.
Comprising seven distinct payloads, this mission is geared towards harnessing vital data about the sun. Four of these payloads will be dedicated to scrutinizing sunlight, while the remaining three will measure plasma and magnetic field parameters. A technological marvel, the Visible Emission Line Coronagraph (VELC) stands as the centerpiece, designed to capture the enigmatic solar corona.
Aditya-L1 will be positioned in a halo orbit around Lagrangian Point 1 (L1), situated 1.5 million km from Earth, directly facing the sun. This strategic vantage point promises uninterrupted solar observation, unimpeded by eclipses or occultation.
The mission’s objectives encompass an in-depth study of solar corona physics, solar wind acceleration, solar atmosphere dynamics, and near-Earth space weather. The insights gleaned from this ambitious mission aim to enhance space weather prediction and foster a deeper comprehension of solar eruptive events.
With Aditya-L1, India aspires to join the select league of nations adept in profound solar research, bolstering its standing in the realm of space exploration. Stay tuned for this historic launch and India’s stride toward solar exploration excellence.
