The Proba-3 mission is an amazing example of teamwork in space technology and international cooperation. It will launch from India’s Satish Dhawan Space Centre at 4:08 PM IST and is a joint effort by Isro (the Indian Space Research Organisation) and ESA (the European Space Agency).
Proba-3 consists of two special satellites: the Coronagraph and the Occulter. They will fly close together, just 150 meters apart, to create artificial solar eclipses. This will help scientists observe the Sun’s corona, which is the outer layer of the Sun’s atmosphere. Understanding the corona is crucial because it influences space weather, affecting satellite communications and electricity on Earth.
The Coronagraph satellite has a 5 cm telescope that will take clear pictures of the corona while staying in the shadow of the Occulter satellite, which has a 1.4-meter-wide disc. This setup allows for continuous observations for six hours each time they orbit the Earth, making it 100 times better than previous methods.
To get the satellites into space, Isro will use its PSLV-XL rocket. This rocket is known for being reliable and cost-effective. It can carry the 550 kg mission payload into a special orbit that is higher than normal, which is perfect for this task.
Proba-3 is the fourth mission in the Proba series, which started in 2001. This mission is unique because it will use formation flying, where both satellites will stay in line with each other very precisely. This amazing technology will help with future space missions that need teamwork among satellites.
The satellites will operate in a high orbit, over 60,000 km away from Earth, where gravity is weaker. This makes it easier for them to stay in formation without using too much fuel. The Occulter will cast a precise shadow just 8 cm wide on the Coronagraph to capture high-quality images of the Sun.
This mission showcases Isro’s expanding role in international space adventures. By working with ESA, Isro strengthens scientific and technological connections. This launch also shows that India is a dependable and affordable partner for space missions, paving the way for more global projects in the future.
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