Aditya L1 Mission
The dedicated solar mission of the ISRO, Aditya L1 was launched in September, marking the beginning of the solar exploration of the space agency. Designed by the indigenous efforts of the scientists, the mission will provide critical information about the sun and facilitate the understanding of the solar atmosphere.
Objective
The mission named, “Aditya L1” is aimed at garnering information about the sun’s outer atmosphere. This will include information about the chromosphere and the corona as well. The space mission is the brainchild of the scientist of ISRO who recently launched the Chandrayan 3 mission. This particular mission intends to study the atmosphere of the sun, the solar wind and the potential impact of the same on the Earth and its weather patterns.
The L1 in the mission
The solar mission will reach the Lagrange point of the sun which stands for the “L1” labelled in the mission. The Lagrange Point is a location, centred on about 1.5 million kilometres between the sun and Earth. The Lagrange point is the location which favours the position of the spacecraft designed for this mission. The Lagrange Point will deliver crucial information about the solar atmosphere, the solar wind and the temperature of the sun along with other associated facts. In general, Aditya's L1 mission is designed to help in the overall study of the solar environment.
Spacecraft highlights
The spacecraft of the Aditya mission is equipped with seven payloads. These payloads will set out on a travel to uncover the insider facts of the Sun's magnificent atmosphere. The payloads attached to the shuttle will utilize a wide range of advanced techniques including in-situ measurement components for profound studies into the sun-oriented air. The spacecraft will be positioned in a halo circle around the Lagrange point. This spacecraft too carries advanced cameras capable of capturing high-resolution pictures, supported by the sensors for compelling examination of characteristics of the Sun's atmosphere. These instruments will help collect important data on the Sun's effect on space weather phenomena.
Payloads' specifics
The components of the payloads connected to the shuttle have been described below.
Visible Emission line coronagraph
To comprehend the temperature of the solar atmosphere, this very payload will examine the structure and elements of the corona.
Plasma analyser
The plasma analyser package will measure the amount of solar wind. It goes past simple estimation, empowering researchers to dig into the intricate details of its composition, temperature, and density. Unwinding these puzzles offers priceless insights into the intriguing transaction between Earth's magnetosphere and the ceaseless force of the solar wind.
Solar ultraviolet imaging telescope
Ultraviolet images of the chromosphere can be taken using a telescope. Also, it is used to study layers’ temperatures through the transition regions of the ultraviolet spectrum. Besides, we will also look at the origins of solar winds.
Low-energy X-ray spectrometer
Physics concepts behind coronal mass ejections of the sun’s atmosphere will be understood with the aid of a low-energy spectrometer.
High Energy X-ray Spectrometer
The emitted x-rays from the solar atmosphere will be measured by this spectrometer. This makes it possible to study coronal mass and solar flares which accelerate particles.
Solar Wind Mission Experiment
The properties like mass, energy and charge which are there in the particles constituting the solar wind are measured through this experiment By doing this, it will help to understand how particles get accelerated in the sun’s atmosphere and their implications for Earth.
Solar Irradiation Monitor
This specific cargo will compute the solar irradiance also known as the total amount of energy released by the sun. This monitor would enable an understanding of how much of this energy varies and affects the earth’s climate.
Mission Budget
The budget for the Aditya L1 mission is quite high due to its importance and intricacy. It is India’s first solar Flagship Mission organised by ISRO, comprehensive allocations have been made to ensure a successful launch of this mission. The estimated budget for the Aditya L1 mission is about 400 crores. That amount encompassed mission operations, spacecraft development, design and launch. Equally, post-launch activities including operational costs together with contingencies have been financed by the allocated budget.
Miscellaneous details
The Mission is named after the Hindu Sun God Aditya. The approximate weight of the spacecraft is 1.5 tons. It looks like the shape of a refrigerator. The duration of the Aditya L1 mission is estimated to be 5 years. During these 5 years, the mission will help to understand the behaviours of the Sun by collecting valuable information.
FAQs
1. What is denoted by L1 in the Aditya L1 Mission?
L1 stands for “Lagrange Point” which is located around 1.5 million kilometers away.
2. How much is the budget for the mission?
Approximately 400 crore INR.
3. When was the mission launched and from where?
The Aditya mission was launched from Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh on 2nd September 2023.