In an exciting development, Bharat space agency, ISRO, is gearing up for the final maneuver of its maiden solar mission, Aditya-L1, on January 6. Launched on September 2, 2023, the spacecraft has successfully undergone multiple earth-bound and Trans-Lagrangean Point 1 Insertion (TL1I) maneuvers.
The spacecraft is set to reach its destination, the first Sun-Earth Lagrangian point (L1), approximately 1.5 million km from Earth. The final maneuver on January 6 aims to position Aditya-L1 into an elliptical orbit measuring 235×19500 km around the Earth, allowing it to view the sun without eclipses.
Aditya-L1 stands out as Bharat’s inaugural space-based observatory designed to study the Sun from a halo orbit around the L1 point. This unique orbit, as explained by the Indian Institute of Astrophysics, is dynamic, following the Earth’s movement around the Sun.
An ISRO official mentioned that the spacecraft has already reached the L1 point, and the upcoming maneuver will precisely position it in the desired orbit. This strategic placement is crucial for Aditya-L1 to effectively observe the Sun as it continues its journey towards the star.
The Lagrange Point, where Aditya-L1 is headed, is a special region where gravitational forces between the Earth and the Sun find equilibrium. Although absolute neutralization is not possible due to the influence of other celestial bodies, the L1 point provides a stable position for observational purposes.
Equipped with seven scientific payloads developed indigenously by ISRO and national research laboratories, Aditya-L1 is geared to observe the photosphere, chromosphere, and the outermost layers of the Sun (corona). The scientific instruments, including electromagnetic particle and magnetic field detectors, are poised to provide valuable insights into the Sun’s behavior.
As the clock ticks towards January 6, the final maneuver marks a significant step in Bharat space exploration journey, bringing Aditya-L1 closer to its mission of unraveling the mysteries of the Sun.
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