Syllabus: GS3/Space
In News
- Scientists from the Indian Institute of Astrophysics and NASA have made the first-ever spectroscopic observations of a coronal mass ejection (CME) in the visible wavelength range, close to the Sun’s surface using the VELC payload on Aditya-L1.
Aditya-L1
- It is India’s first space-based solar observatory, designed to study the Sun from Lagrange Point 1, located about 1.5 million km from Earth.
- This position allows uninterrupted observation of solar phenomena without eclipses or occultation.
- It launched in September 2023 to enhance understanding of solar dynamics, including coronal mass ejections (CMEs), solar flares, and their impact on space weather — crucial for satellite operations, communications, and power grids on Earth.
- The mission carries seven indigenously developed payloads, five by ISRO and two in collaboration with Indian academic institutions.
- These instruments are designed to observe the photosphere, chromosphere, and corona of the Sun,Solar emissions and magnetic field variations and Solar wind and energetic particle fluxes.
| Lagrange Points – Lagrange Points are positions in space where the gravitational forces of two massive bodies (like the Sun and Earth) and the centripetal force of a smaller object (like a spacecraft) balance each other. – This allows the smaller object to remain relatively stable with respect to the two larger bodies. – There are five such points (L1–L5) in the Sun-Earth system.  Halo Orbit – A three-dimensional periodic orbit around a Lagrange point. Unlike a simple circular orbit, it forms a loop-like path (halo) around L1. – It helps spacecraft avoid direct shadowing by Earth or Moon while maintaining a stable position with minimal fuel consumption. |
Strategic Significance
- Aditya-L1 will provide continuous solar monitoring, helping predict space weather events and their terrestrial impacts.
- It supports global solar research and complements missions like NASA’s Parker Solar Probe and ESA’s Solar Orbiter.
- It showcases India’s growing capability in observatory-class space science.
- It aligns with India’s broader space ambitions, including the upcoming Gaganyaan human spaceflight mission and interplanetary exploration.
Sources:TH
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