India Launches Unique Proba-3 Mission

India’s PSLV rocket will launch two satellites on December 4, 2024, named Proba-3, which is a groundbreaking endeavour. It is the first to fly two satellites in parallel formation for extended periods. The primary goal is to study the solar corona, which is the Sun’s outer atmosphere.

Mission Overview

Proba-3 aims to enhance our understanding of solar phenomena. It features two satellites – one equipped with a coronagraph and the other with an occulter. This setup is distinct from traditional missions, where both instruments are on a single satellite.

Satellite Configuration

The satellites will maintain a precise distance of 150 meters. They will fly together for six hours each day. A laser from one satellite will target a reflector on the other to ensure accurate positioning. This innovative method allows for stable formation flying.

Launch Details

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) will conduct the launch. The satellites will be stacked and placed in an elliptical orbit. This orbit ranges from 600 km to 60,530 km above Earth. After deployment, they will transition to a parallel orbit.

Autonomous Operations

Once in their designated orbit, the satellites will perform a “Collision Avoidance Manoeuvre.” This means they will autonomously avoid collisions without ground control. They will have the capability to separate and reunite as needed.

Using two separate satellites allows for larger instruments. This design enables the use of more advanced tools than a single satellite could accommodate. It facilitates the study of fainter and more distant solar signals.

Precision Flying

Proba-3 will achieve high precision in formation flying. The satellites will maintain their distance with millimeter-level accuracy. This level of precision has not been achieved in previous missions, marking advancement in space technology.

Important Facts for Exams:

1. Proba-3 – Proba-3 is the first mission to operate two satellites in parallel formation. It aims to study the solar corona, enhancing our understanding of solar phenomena.
2. Coronagraph – A coronagraph is an instrument designed to observe the solar corona. It blocks the Sun’s direct light, allowing scientists to study the outer atmosphere of the Sun.
3. Occulter – An occulter is a device that blocks bright light from a celestial object. In Proba-3, one satellite carries the occulter, enabling precise solar observations.

Month: Current Affairs - November, 2024

Category: Science & Technology Current Affairs