The Solar Ultraviolet Imaging Telescope (SUIT), a product of the Inter-University Center for Astronomy and Astrophysics in Pune, has recently been delivered to the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). This specialty space telescope is set to be integrated with ISRO’s ADITYA-L1 mission, which is scheduled for a mid-August 2023 launch.
The Solar Ultraviolet Imaging Telescope (SUIT)
The primary objective of SUIT is to perform extensive studies of the Sun’s ultraviolet (UV) emissions. It is designed to capture high-resolution images of the Sun’s corona or atmosphere in varying UV wavelengths. SUIT operates in both near and far ultraviolet regions, effectively observing wavelengths between 200-400 nanometers. This technology will enable detailed observation of the Sun’s dynamic atmospheric regions like the transition region and the corona.
Significance of SUIT
Studying the Sun is challenging due to its high emissions and radiation. By offering scientists the ability to study these emissions more closely, SUIT could reveal valuable information about the impact of the Sun on Earth and other planets. In addition, SUIT can measure UV radiation that is harmful to human skin. It is also equipped to monitor solar activities potentially providing early warnings of solar flares and coronal mass ejections (CMEs) that could impact satellites, communication systems, power grids, and human health.
Aditya-L1 Mission: An Overview
The Aditya-L1 mission is dedicated to the study of the Sun. It aims to travel about 1.5 million kilometers away from Earth to the Lagrange point 1 (L1), an advantageous spot for solar observations. The Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) rocket is expected to propel this mission. Regular updates on solar surface phenomena and space weather will be provided in the form of images.
Key Features of the Aditya-L1 Mission
Aditya-L1 carries seven payloads that will study different phenomena on the Sun across the electromagnetic spectrum and solar wind. These payloads include:
– Visible Emission Line Coronagraph (VELC)
– Solar Ultraviolet Imaging Telescope (SUIT)
– Solar Low Energy X-ray Spectrometer (SoLEXS)
– Aditya Solar wind Particle Experiment (ASPEX)
– High Energy L1 Orbiting X-ray Spectrometer (HEL1OS)
– Plasma Analyser Package for Aditya (PAPA)
– Advanced Tri-axial High Resolution Digital Magnetometers
Understanding the Lagrange Point 1 (L1)
L1 refers to the Lagrange point 1, one of the five points in space where the gravitational forces of two large bodies such as the Sun and the Earth balance the centrifugal force felt by a smaller body. Named in honor of mathematician Josephy-Louis Lagrange, these points enable spacecraft to minimize fuel consumption needed to stay in position. L1 is one the three unstable Lagrange points within the Sun-Earth system, offering an uninterrupted view of the sun. The Solar and Heliospheric Observatory Satellite presently occupies this point.
Using Space Science and Technology
The development and application of space science technologies like SUIT and ADITYA-L1 indicate India’s significant advancements in this sector. Not only do these technologies increase our understanding of space phenomena, they also contribute to India’s socio-economic growth by enhancing capacities related to communication systems, weather predictions, and safety measures against hazardous radiation.
