ISRO is prepared to launch the European Space Agency (ESA)’s PROBA-3 mission satellites into orbit today from Sriharikota, utilizing ISRO’s Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) PSLV-C59 vehicle. The PROBA-3 mission aims to approach the orbit of the Sun. The launch is scheduled to take place at 04:08 PM IST. Keep reading below to learn more about the PROBA-3 Mission.
ISRO To Launch PROBA-3 Mission Satellites
The PROBA-3 mission, a collaboration between ISRO and ESA, showcases enhanced global partnerships in space research. It includes two spacecraft—the Coronagraph Spacecraft (CSC) and the Occulter Spacecraft (OSC)—that will perform precision formation flying 150 meters apart to simulate a solar eclipse. This mission aims to observe the Sun’s faint corona in unprecedented detail, providing insights into solar dynamics and space weather. It seeks to explain phenomena like the corona’s high temperature and the acceleration of solar wind.
ESA And ISRO Collaboation For PROBA-3 Mission
The PROBA-3 mission highlights the importance of international partnerships in advancing space research and technology. The collaboration between ISRO and ESA underscores the growing role of global cooperation in achieving scientific milestones in space. The mission also showcases ISRO’s growing capabilities in space technology, with the PSLV-XL rocket being chosen to carry the two spacecraft into orbit. This launch will mark the 61st flight of the PSLV and the 26th use of its PSLV-XL configuration.
PROBA-3 Mission Satellite Details
The instruments used in launch, ISRO’s PSLV-C59 vehicle is 146 feet (44.5 m) tall with a Lift off Mass of 320 t. The lift-off mass refers to the starting mass of a rocket. The lift-off mass comprises the complete mass of fuels and oxidizers. The launch mass must always exceed the weight of the Rocket; otherwise, it will not be able to take off.
The launch will habe four propulsion stages; First Stage- 6PSOM-XL+ S139, Second Stage- PL40, Third Stage- HPS3 and Fourth Stage- L2.5
What Is The PROBA-3 Mission?
The PROBA-3 mission, launched from the First Launch Pad at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, aims to advance our understanding of the Sun’s corona and space weather phenomena. The mission, carried by the PSLV-C59 rocket, will showcase accurate formation flying and provide groundbreaking data on solar dynamics and space weather phenomena. The mission, which is part of a series of PROBA satellites, will validate new spacecraft technologies and concepts while carrying scientific instruments. The mission’s scientific goals include advancing our understanding of solar storms and coronal mass ejections, which can impact Earth’s communication systems, satellite operations, and power grids. The estimated cost of the mission is 200 million euros.
Where Can You Watch The Launch?
Space fans and researchers will want to watch the live-stream of the Proba-3 mission launch on December 4, 2024, at 4:08 PM IST. ISRO will stream the event on its official website and YouTube channel, offering worldwide access to the thrilling launch.
Experiencing the Proba-3 launch presents a unique chance to contribute to a significant event in the realm of space exploration. The mission will both enhance our understanding of the Sun and lay the groundwork for future missions that will further advance the limits of what can be achieved in space science.
