ISRO Launches ESA’s Proba-3 Mission Successfully

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has marked achievement by launching the European Space Agency‘s (ESA) Proba-3 mission. The launch took place on a Thursday at 4:04 PM IST from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota. This mission reflects a strong partnership in international space exploration.

Mission Overview

The Proba-3 mission comprises two satellites – the Coronagraph weighing 310 kg and the Occulter at 240 kg. These satellites are designed to study the Sun’s corona, the outer layer of the Sun’s atmosphere. The launch was initially postponed due to a detected anomaly in the satellite’s propulsion system but was successfully executed after the countdown.

How the Mission Operates

The two satellites will operate in a coordinated manner, maintaining a distance of 150 meters apart. This precise formation is crucial to enable advanced solar observations. The PSLV-C59 rocket, which has completed its 61st flight, will place the satellites into a highly elliptical orbit just 18 minutes post-launch. The Occulter will block the Sun’s disk, allowing the Coronagraph to observe the solar atmosphere.

Scientific Significance

The mission aims to explore the corona, which is hotter than the Sun’s surface. About this area is vital for comprehending solar activity and its effects on Earth. The instruments onboard Proba-3 will observe the solar rim for extended periods, making this mission one of the most advanced solar observation projects to date.

ISRO’s Technological Advancements

The Proba-3 mission serves as a technology demonstration funded by ESA’s General Support Technology Programme. It showcases ISRO’s expertise in deploying complex satellite systems. The successful launch builds on ISRO’s previous achievements, including the Aditya-L1 solar mission launched in September 2023.

Global Collaboration

This collaboration with ESA enhances ISRO’s standing in global solar research. Proba-3 is expected to provide new vital information about solar behaviour and the dynamics of space weather. Such missions not only advance scientific knowledge but also strengthen international partnerships in space exploration.

Future Implications

The successful deployment of Proba-3 opens avenues for future missions aimed at understanding solar phenomena. gained from this mission may lead to improved forecasting of space weather events that can impact Earth.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Critically analyse the role of international collaborations in advancing space research.
2. Estimate the significance of solar observation missions in understanding climate change on Earth.
3. Point out the technological advancements demonstrated in ISRO’s Proba-3 mission.
4. What are the implications of studying solar corona? With suitable examples, explain its impact on space weather.

Answer Hints:

1. Critically analyse the role of international collaborations in advancing space research.

1. International collaborations pool resources, expertise, and funding, enhancing research capabilities.
2. They facilitate knowledge exchange, leading to innovative technologies and methodologies.
3. Collaborative missions, like Proba-3, strengthen diplomatic ties and promote peaceful uses of outer space.
4. Shared data from global partnerships accelerates scientific discoveries and applications.
5. They also help in addressing global challenges, such as climate change and natural disasters, through advanced satellite technologies.

2. Estimate the significance of solar observation missions in understanding climate change on Earth.

1. Solar observation missions provide critical data on solar radiation and its variations affecting Earth’s climate.
2. About solar activity helps predict space weather events that can impact satellite operations and communications.
3. gained assist in modeling climate systems, leading to better climate change forecasts.
4. Solar observations contribute to understanding long-term climate patterns and their relationship with solar cycles.
5. Data from missions like Proba-3 can improve resilience against climate-related disasters by informing policy and preparedness strategies.

3. Point out the technological advancements demonstrated in ISRO’s Proba-3 mission.

1. Proba-3 showcases precise formation flying technology, enabling two satellites to operate in coordinated orbits.
2. The mission utilizes advanced instruments for solar observation, enhancing data collection capabilities.
3. It demonstrates ISRO’s ability to deploy complex satellite systems successfully, building on previous missions.
4. Proba-3 is a technology demonstration funded by ESA, denoting international support for innovative space technology.
5. The successful launch and operation of the satellites reflect advancements in propulsion and control systems.

4. What are the implications of studying solar corona? With suitable examples, explain its impact on space weather.

1. Studying the solar corona helps understand solar flares and coronal mass ejections, which can disrupt satellite communications.
2. Knowledge of the corona’s dynamics aids in predicting space weather events that affect Earth’s magnetic field.
3. For example, the 1989 geomagnetic storm caused by solar activity led to widespread power outages in Quebec.
4. Research on the corona informs models that forecast solar activity, crucial for space missions and satellite operations.
5. About the corona’s temperature and behavior is vital for comprehending the Sun’s influence on Earth’s climate and environment.