PROBA-3 Mission / ISRO's Proba-3 mission will be launched today, what will it study? Know here

PROBA-3 Mission: The Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) is once again going to demonstrate its excellence in space science. This evening ISRO will launch the European Space Agency's (ESA) Proba-3 Solar Mission. The mission will be launched from Satish Dhawan Space Center, Sriharikota at 4:15 pm Indian time.

Reason for launch delay

The mission was originally scheduled to be launched on Wednesday via PSLV-C59 rocket, but was postponed for a day due to a technical fault in the Proba-3 spacecraft. Now, all preparations have been completed, and the mission is targeted to be launched successfully today.

Proba-3 Mission: Introduction and Objective

Proba-3 is the third mission of ESA's Project for Onboard Autonomy (PROBA) program. It is specifically designed to study the outer atmosphere of the Sun, called the corona. The mission consists of two satellites, which will work together to closely study the activities of the Sun and its effects.

Key features of Proba-3:

World's first precision formation flying mission:

Under this mission, two satellites will be launched, which will be located in the Earth's orbit at a distance of about 150 meters from each other.

Role of two satellites:

Coronagraph spacecraft: It will study the outer layers of the Sun by blocking its light.

Occultor spacecraft: It will help in studying the inner and outer corona by covering the Sun.

In-depth study of the Sun's corona:

Proba-3 will closely study the gap between the Sun's inner and outer corona, which is very important for astronomy.

Full European collaboration:

Scientists from Spain, Belgium, Poland, Italy and Switzerland have worked together for this mission. Its cost is around 200 million euros (Rs 1,778 crore).

Relation between ISRO and Proba series

ISRO has made a significant contribution in the missions of the Proba series. The first mission of this series was launched by ISRO in 2001. Now, 23 years later, the launch of Proba-3 is another excellent example of scientific collaboration between ISRO and ESA.

Use of the mission

This mission will help in understanding solar storms, the Sun's magnetic field and its effects.

This study will help in better understanding the impact of solar activities on Earth.

The results will make a significant contribution to space science and meteorology.

Conclusion

The Proba-3 mission is a historic achievement for both ISRO and ESA. It is not only an example of technological advancement but also a symbol of ISRO's growing credibility globally. Today's launch will not only prove to be a milestone for space science but will also make India's scientific community proud.