India’s space exploration endeavors are reaching a significant milestone as the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) prepares for the final manoeuvre of Aditya L1, its maiden solar mission. Set to be injected into its final orbit today at approximately 4 pm, Aditya L1 is poised to become a crucial player in unraveling the mysteries of the Sun, providing invaluable insights into the solar corona and its extreme heat. Taazinews 24 has extended its presence to WhatsApp. Tap here to join and receive the latest updates on Daily News.
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Details of the Final Manoeuvre:
ISRO Chief S Somanath, in a statement to news agency ANI on Monday, confirmed that Aditya-L1 is scheduled to reach its Lagrange Point 1 (L1) on January 6 at 4 pm. The final manoeuvre will then be executed to position the spacecraft in its designated orbit around the Sun. Once at its final destination, Aditya L1 will have an unobstructed view of the Sun, free from eclipses, enabling comprehensive observations.
Mission Progress and Earth-Bound Manoeuvres:
Launched on September 2 last year, Aditya L1 has undergone significant milestones, including four successful earth-bound manoeuvres and a Trans-Lagrangean Point 1 Insertion (TL1I) manoeuvre. These manoeuvres were crucial in aligning the spacecraft’s trajectory and ensuring its readiness for the final approach to the L1 point.
Scientific Objectives:
Aditya L1’s primary mission is to study the Sun’s corona, delving into the mysteries of its extreme heat. To achieve this, the spacecraft will be positioned in a halo orbit around the first Sun-Earth Lagrangian point (L1), situated approximately 1.5 million km from Earth. The Lagrange Point is a gravitational equilibrium region, and despite the influence of celestial bodies like the Moon, Mars, and Venus, it provides a stable observational platform.
The Significance of Lagrange Point 1:
The L1 point is a unique location where gravitational forces between the Earth and the Sun balance, allowing spacecraft to maintain a relatively stable position. While complete neutralization is challenging due to the gravitational influences of other celestial bodies, the L1 point serves as an ideal vantage point for scientific observations.
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