India’s ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) is set to launch the PSLV-C59 rocket today, carrying Proba-3 satellites developed by the European Space Agency (ESA). This marks a significant collaboration between ISRO and ESA, with the mission aiming to study the Sun’s outer atmosphere.
Key Highlights:
- Launch Site: Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh.
- Satellites: Proba-3 consists of two small satellites working in unison.
- Objective: These satellites will study the Sun’s outermost regions by creating an artificial eclipse to block the Sun’s light, allowing for precise observations.
- Orbit: The satellites will be positioned in a circular orbit at a distance of 60,500 km from Earth.
- Launch Time: Scheduled for 4:08 PM IST today.
Special Features of Proba-3:
- The satellites will fly in close coordination, maintaining a precise distance of 150 meters from each other.
- By mimicking a solar eclipse, the mission enables detailed studies of the Sun’s corona and outer layers.
Significance:
This mission is a pioneering effort to study the Sun’s outer atmosphere, helping scientists understand solar activities and their impact on Earth. It also strengthens the partnership between ISRO and ESA following their recently signed agreement.
Proba-3’s data could provide valuable insights into solar winds, radiation, and their influence on space weather. The launch is expected to enhance ISRO’s global reputation as a reliable partner for complex space missions.
