The successful launch of the European Space Agency's (ESA) Proba-3 satellites aboard the PSLV-C59 rocket by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) marks a significant milestone in solar research. This pioneering mission is poised to revolutionize our understanding of the Sun's corona and solar wind, according to former ISRO scientist PV Venkitakrishnan.

Proba-3, a collaborative effort between ESA and ISRO, focuses on studying the Sun’s corona—the outer atmosphere of the Sun, which is hotter than its surface. The mission is designed to examine the solar wind, a stream of charged particles flowing from the Sun, and its impact on space weather phenomena.

Venkitakrishnan explains that the Proba-3 mission is equipped with state-of-the-art technology and cutting-edge design, enabling it to simulate a total solar eclipse. While natural eclipses occur briefly and infrequently, Proba-3 will provide a continuous observation of the corona during each orbit for up to six hours. This continuous observation effectively replicates approximately 50 natural eclipses per year.

The Coronagraph spacecraft within the mission will capture high-resolution images and gather data to enhance the understanding of solar physics. It will also improve the accuracy of space weather forecasts. The two satellites of the Proba-3 mission—the Coronagraph and Occulter—will achieve a precise formation of 150 meters apart following orbital adjustments.

This exact positioning is made possible by ESA’s advanced propulsion systems, showcasing innovative engineering. Venkitakrishnan highlighted the collaboration between ESA and ISRO, with ISRO’s cost-effective launch services playing a key role. This partnership underscores India’s rising stature in the global space sector. ISRO’s significant achievements in space diplomacy are also evident in ESA’s reliance on ISRO for its launch vehicle, filling the gap left by ESA’s lack of launch capabilities. By successfully launching Proba-3, ISRO demonstrated its expertise in carrying out innovative scientific missions, while also strengthening international cooperation in solar physics and space research.