ISRO’s Aditya L1 missions begin collecting scientific data
ISRO’s Aditya L1 mission has entered its next phase of operation as it starts collecting scientific data using the Supra Thermal and Energetic Particle Spectrometer (STEPS) instrument. This instrument will provide insights into the origin, acceleration, and anisotropy of solar wind and space weather phenomena.
According to the Indian Express, STEPS was activated on September 10 when Aditya L1 was 50,000 km from Earth. This is more than eight times the radius of Earth. The instrument, designed by the Physical Research Laboratory (PRL) in collaboration with the Space Applications Center (SAC), comprises six sensors located in different directions. These sensors measure energetic and suprathermal ions ranging from 20 keV/nucleon to 5 MeV/nucleon.
The data collected by STEPS will help scientists understand the nature and behavior of particles surrounding Earth, particularly within the magnetic field. This information is crucial for gaining a better understanding of our planet’s environment and its interaction with space.
Aditya L1 is India’s first mission dedicated to studying the sun. It was launched on September 2 using a Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV-C57). The spacecraft is currently in a lower orbit but will be directed towards the Lagrange point known as L1. The Lagrange point is a stable point in space where gravitational forces balance out, allowing for continuous observation without fuel consumption.
The Aditya L1 mission aims to gather valuable data about the sun that will contribute to our knowledge of solar activities and their impact on Earth. By studying solar wind and space weather phenomena, scientists can better predict and prepare for potential disruptions caused by these events.
The successful activation of STEPS marks an important milestone in this mission. With continued data collection throughout its journey towards the Sun-Earth L1 point, Aditya L1 will provide valuable insights into the dynamics of solar wind and its effects on our planet.
According to analysts, this phase of data collection will continue as the spacecraft reaches its intended orbit. The data collected by STEPS will be crucial for advancing our understanding of space weather and improving our ability to forecast and mitigate its impact on Earth.
In the final analysis, ISRO’s Aditya L1 mission has begun collecting scientific data using the STEPS instrument. This marks a significant step forward in our understanding of solar wind and space weather phenomena. The data collected by STEPS will contribute to advancements in space weather forecasting, ultimately benefiting various sectors that rely on accurate predictions for their operations.
To read more about this topic, visit the original article from the Indian Express here.
