In a significant step towards unraveling the mysteries of our Sun, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has successfully completed the second orbital adjustment of the Aditya L1 mission. This remarkable achievement propels Aditya L1 into an elliptical orbit, with its closest point to Earth at 282 km and its farthest point at 40,225 km. This maneuver paves the way for Aditya L1's four-month-long journey to Lagrange point 1 (L1) in the Sun-Earth system, situated approximately 1.5 million kilometers from Earth.
Aditya L1 Mission Overview
Aditya L1, India's pioneering space-based Sun observatory, embarked on its mission when it was launched into a near-Earth orbit by a Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) rocket from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) SHAR in Sriharikota. The mission's objective is to enhance our understanding of the Sun, its influence on Earth, and solar phenomena that impact our planet.
Progress So Far
The Aditya-L1 mission is progressing rapidly, following a carefully planned series of Earth-bound orbit-raising maneuvers:
1. First Earth-Bound Manoeuvre: Shortly after its launch, the first Earth-bound maneuver (EBN#1) took place. This maneuver altered the satellite's orbit to 245 km x 22,459 km.
2. Second Earth-Bound Manoeuvre: ISRO's Telemetry Tracking and Command Network (ISTRAC) in Bengaluru successfully executed the second maneuver. Ground stations in Mauritius, Bengaluru, and Port Blair closely tracked the satellite, resulting in the achievement of the new orbit dimensions of 282 km x 40,225 km.
What Lies Ahead for Aditya L1?
The Aditya L1 mission has several critical phases ahead:
1. Earth-Bound Orbit Raising Manoeuvres: Three more Earth-bound orbit-raising maneuvers are planned, with the third scheduled for September 10. These maneuvers are essential to gain the necessary velocity for the mission.
2. Exit from Earth's Gravitational Sphere of Influence (SOI): After completing the Earth-bound maneuvers, Aditya L1 will gradually propel itself away from Earth's gravitational influence.
3. Cruise Phase: Following its departure from Earth's SOI, the mission will transition into the cruise phase, where it will continue its journey towards the Sun-Earth L1 point.
4. Halo Orbit at L1: After a 110-day trajectory, Aditya-L1 will reach the L1 point and execute another crucial maneuver to establish a large halo orbit around the L1 Lagrange point.
Mission Objectives
Strategically positioned at the L1 Lagrange point, Aditya-L1 will have an uninterrupted view of the Sun. This vantage point is critical for studying solar radiation and magnetic storms before they are influenced by Earth's magnetic field and atmosphere. Additionally, the gravitational stability at the L1 point minimizes the need for frequent orbital adjustments, optimizing the mission's efficiency.
The primary objectives of Aditya-L1 include studying solar winds, which can disrupt Earth's magnetosphere and manifest as stunning "auroras." Over time, the data gathered from this mission could provide invaluable insights into the Sun's impact on Earth's climate patterns.
In conclusion, Aditya L1's successful orbital adjustment marks a significant milestone in India's pursuit of scientific knowledge about the Sun. This pioneering mission has the potential to unlock a deeper understanding of solar phenomena and their influence on our planet, ultimately contributing to advancements in space science and our ability to predict and manage space weather.
