Aditya-L1 mission: ISRO chief shares solar observation milestones and future space endeavours

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The Aditya-L1 mission, launched on September 2, 2023, has reached a significant milestone. Isro Chief S. Somanath, speaking at the International Space Conference, shared the latest update on the spacecraft's progress.

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Aditya-L1 mission’s spacecraft is currently positioned at Lagrange point 1, orbiting the Sun. Somanath mentioned that initial observations have begun, showcasing the commencement of data collection.

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The meticulous planning of Aditya-L1's journey involved multiple orbits around Earth before reaching its target orbit on January 6, 2024. This precision is essential for studying the Sun with unparalleled accuracy.

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Isro Chief S. Somanath emphasised that the Aditya-L1 mission is not only a national triumph but a global achievement, stating, "This is for the whole world, not for India alone," India Today reported. 

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The Aditya-L1 mission aims to deepen our understanding of solar phenomena, such as the solar corona, photosphere, and the impact of solar winds and related radiation.

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During its voyage, Aditya-L1's instruments were calibrated, showcasing its healthy condition. The spacecraft has sent back X-ray images and particle counts, providing valuable insights.

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ISRO’s commitment to precision was evident as Aditya-L1 mission required several corrections for its exact placement in the halo orbit around the L1 point. This precision prevented the satellite from drifting off course.

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Looking ahead, Somanath highlighted ISRO's ambitious plans, with the Gaganyaan program being a top priority in 2024. The agency aims for a manned mission by 2025 and envisions an Indian astronaut landing on the Moon by 2040.