The Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) is set to launch the much-anticipated solar space observatory, Aditya-L1. It will be launched today at 11:50 a.m. from the Sriharikota spaceport in Andhra Pradesh. This groundbreaking mission has the potential to fundamentally alter our understanding of the Sun.
ISRO Chief S Somanath expressed excitement about the mission’s launch and announced the successful completion of the countdown. It will take another 125 days to reach the L1 point, he mentioned, emphasizing the mission’s significance.
The spacecraft will assume a position in a halo orbit around the Lagrange point 1 (L1) of the Sun-Earth system. This point is located 1.5 million kilometers away from Earth and will provide a unique vantage point for continuous solar observation, free from occultation and eclipses.
In order to get to the L1 point, the Aditya-L1 spacecraft will travel for 126 days. Once there, it will give scientists access to real-time data on solar activity and how it affects space weather.
A Precise Launch Method
Aditya-L1 will perform five maneuvers to obtain the requisite velocity for its interplanetary voyage. During its 16-day stay in Earth-bound orbit after launch, it will undergo this process. A Trans-Lagrangian1 insertion maneuver will mark the end of this phase. From there will be the start of the spacecraft’s 110-day journey to the L1 Lagrange point. Aditya-L1 will enter L1’s orbit after another maneuver. The spacecraft will be in a stable position between the Earth and the Sun.
What is Coming?
Aditya-L1’s successful launch paves the way for revolutionary developments in solar science. It will improve our understanding of the Sun. It will also help forecast space weather, which can have a big impact on the technological infrastructure of Earth.
Future missions by ISRO, such as Chandrayaan-4 and Gaganyaan, show the country’s dedication to pushing the limits of space exploration. The launch of Aditya-L1 is an important accomplishment. Everyone is eagerly awaiting the priceless knowledge, it will offer about the operation of our nearest star.