ISRO Proba-3 Launch: Sriharikota: A minor technical hiccup has forced the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) to postpone the much-anticipated launch of the European Space Agency’s (ESA) Proba-3 mission. The launch, originally slated for Wednesday, December 4th, 2024, at 4:08 PM IST, has been rescheduled to Thursday, December 5th, 2024, at 4:12 PM IST.
The decision to delay the launch was taken after ISRO detected an anomaly in the Proba-3 spacecraft. The space agency prioritized the mission’s success and opted for a cautious approach, ensuring that all systems are functioning optimally before the liftoff.
The Proba-3 mission, a collaborative effort between ESA and ISRO, is poised to revolutionize solar science. This ambitious endeavor aims to study the Sun’s corona, the outermost layer of its atmosphere, which is crucial for understanding space weather and its impact on Earth.
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Collage of ISRO’s PSLV-C59 rocket launch preparation.
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To achieve this goal, Proba-3 will employ a novel technique known as formation flying. Two satellites will work in tandem, precisely positioned to create an artificial solar eclipse. This innovative approach will enable scientists to observe the corona for extended periods, revealing intricate details that were previously obscured.
The launch of Proba-3 on the PSLV-C59 XL variant is a testament to ISRO’s growing expertise in space technology. This powerful rocket, equipped with six large solid propellant strap-on motors, is capable of launching payloads into a variety of orbits.
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The Proba-3 mission underscores the increasing international collaboration in space exploration. By partnering with ESA, ISRO is not only demonstrating its technical prowess but also solidifying its position as a global leader in space science.
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