Exciting Breakthrough: ISRO’s Historic Launch of Europe’s Proba-3 Mission from Sriharikota for Solar Research – 10 Jaw-Dropping Facts Unveiled | Latest News India
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is set to launch the European Space Agency’s (ESA) Proba-3 mission from Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh, on December 4 at 4:08 PM IST. Utilizing the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) in its 61st mission and the 26th of the PSLV-XL type, the Proba-3 mission is a significant collaboration between ESA and ISRO’s commercial arm, NewSpace India Limited (NSIL). This “In-Orbit Demonstration” mission aims to advance solar research and understanding of space weather.
Weighing a total of 550 kg, the Proba-3 satellites will reach high Earth orbit approximately 18 minutes after launch. The mission includes two spacecraft, Coronagraph and Occulter, which will fly in a tight configuration, separated by only 150 meters. This arrangement allows the Occulter spacecraft to block the Sun’s disc, enabling the Coronagraph to study the solar corona. Together, they facilitate “solar eclipses on demand,” offering unprecedented continuous observation of the Sun’s outer atmosphere.
The Proba-3 mission represents a breakthrough in precision formation flying technology, which could pave the way for future space exploration. The satellites will provide new insights into the Sun’s corona, critical data for understanding space weather events that impact satellite communications, GPS systems, and Earth’s power grids.
The mission’s orbital period is approximately 19.7 hours with an apogee of 60,530 km and a perigee of 600 km from Earth. Proba-3 follows ISRO’s earlier Proba-1 and Proba-2 launches, furthering India’s and Europe’s cooperation in space research and technological advancement. This partnership highlights the growing importance of international collaboration in the pursuit of scientific discovery and innovation in space technology.
Original Source: https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/isro-to-launch-europes-proba-3-mission-today-december-4-2024-for-solar-research-10-facts-101733270176429.html
Category :
Tags:
Publish Date: 2024-12-04 06:31:00
