ISRO’s Aditya-L1 spacecraft is embarking on an exciting journey towards the Sun-Earth L1 point, where it will study the Sun continuously. This mission marks a significant achievement for India’s space endeavors, as Aditya-L1 will be the first Indian spacecraft to orbit a point in space rather than a celestial body like Earth, the Moon, or Mars.
Heading to Sun-Earth L1 Point
In a recent maneuver, ISRO directed the Aditya-L1 spacecraft toward the Sun-Earth L1 point, located 1.5 million kilometers away from Earth. The spacecraft will follow a Trans-Lagrangean Point 1 trajectory for 110 days before entering orbit around this unique point in space. This trajectory allows Aditya-L1 to reach a position where the gravitational forces from the Sun and Earth are perfectly balanced.
A Remarkable Achievement for ISRO
ISRO’s successful transfer of Aditya-L1 onto this trajectory signifies the fifth consecutive time they’ve managed to position an object on a trajectory toward another celestial body or location in space. This milestone demonstrates ISRO’s expertise and capabilities in space exploration.
Halo Orbit Around L1 Point
Upon completing its 110-day journey, Aditya-L1 will enter a halo orbit around the Sun-Earth L1 point. This specific location offers an unobstructed view of the Sun, making it an ideal spot for solar observations. Unlike other celestial bodies, the L1 point allows scientists to study the Sun without interruptions such as eclipses or interference from Earth’s atmosphere and magnetic fields.
Benefits of Studying the Sun at L1
Studying the Sun from the L1 point provides several advantages. It ensures an uninterrupted view of the Sun, free from any celestial bodies that could cause eclipses. Additionally, it allows researchers to observe the Sun without interference from Earth’s atmosphere and magnetic fields, which can filter out certain types of harmful radiation.
Instruments on Board
Aditya-L1 is equipped with seven scientific instruments, including the Supra Thermal and Energetic Particle Spectrometer (STEPS). This instrument has already begun collecting scientific data by measuring high-temperature, energetic particles in the solar wind. STEPS comprises six sensors, each observing in different directions. The data collected during Aditya-L1’s journey will provide valuable insights into the behavior of particles around Earth, especially in the presence of Earth’s magnetic field.
What is the Sun-Earth L1 point?
The Sun-Earth L1 point is a location in space approximately 1.5 million kilometers away from Earth. It is a point where the gravitational pull of the Sun and Earth on a spacecraft is perfectly balanced.
Why is Aditya-L1 going to the L1 point?
Aditya-L1 is heading to the L1 point to study the Sun continuously. This location offers an unobstructed view of the Sun, making it ideal for solar observations.
What makes Aditya-L1’s mission unique?
Aditya-L1’s mission is unique because it will be the first Indian spacecraft to orbit a point in space rather than a celestial body like Earth, the Moon, or Mars.
How many scientific instruments are on board Aditya-L1?
Aditya-L1 is equipped with seven scientific instruments, including the Supra Thermal and Energetic Particle Spectrometer (STEPS).
