ISRO to launch ESA's Proba-3 mission from Sriharikota today for groundbreaking solar research

By Deepu Mohan  |  First Published Dec 4, 2024, 10:54 AM IST

ISRO's PSLV-C59 rocket will launch ESA's Proba-3 spacecraft, consisting of two satellites, to study the Sun's corona by creating an artificial solar eclipse, marking a significant milestone in ISRO-ESA collaboration.


Sriharikota: The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is set to launch the European Space Agency's (ESA) Proba-3 spacecraft today for an important solar mission. The launch is scheduled for 4:08 PM from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh, aboard ISRO's PSLV-C59 rocket. This launch marks a significant milestone in the collaboration between ISRO and ESA.

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The PSLV-C59 rocket will carry two satellites, built by ESA, into space. The mission involves a unique setup, where two spacecraft – the Coronagraph and the Occulter – will be sent together as part of the world's first precision formation flying mission. Weighing a combined 550 kg, these satellites will operate in tandem to study the Sun's outermost and hottest atmospheric layer, known as the corona.

“PSLV-C59, showcasing the proven expertise of ISRO, is ready to deliver ESA’s PROBA-3 satellites into orbit. This mission, powered by NSIL with ISRO’s engineering excellence, reflects the strength of international collaboration. A proud milestone in India’s space journey and a shining example of global partnerships," ISRO posted on X.

🚀 Liftoff Day is Here!

PSLV-C59, showcasing the proven expertise of ISRO, is ready to deliver ESA’s PROBA-3 satellites into orbit. This mission, powered by NSIL with ISRO’s engineering excellence, reflects the strength of international collaboration.

🌌 A proud milestone in… pic.twitter.com/KUTe5zeyIb

— ISRO (@isro)

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The mission's key objective is to study the Sun's corona by creating an artificial solar eclipse. This will be achieved by positioning the Coronagraph and Occulter satellites in such a way that one spacecraft blocks the Sun's light from the other, enabling detailed observations. The satellites will maintain a distance of approximately 150 meters, demonstrating the advanced capabilities of ISRO's PSLV rocket.

Proba-3 will provide vital insights into the Sun's corona, which remains a largely unexplored area in solar science. The mission highlights the growing strength of India's PSLV launch vehicle and showcases ISRO’s ongoing progress in the global space exploration arena.

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