Aditya-L1 mission set to reach L1 point in January 2023; huge achievement by ISRO  

Photo Credit: ISRO

In February of this year, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) launched the groundbreaking Aditya-L1 mission, marking India's first foray into studying the Sun from as close quarters as possible.

Photo Credit: ISRO

Jitendra Singh, India's Minister of State (Science and Technology), announced that Aditya-L1 is set to reach its destination, Lagrange Point 1 (L1), during the first week of January 2024, Times now reported. 

Photo Credit: ISRO

Recently, Aditya-L1 achieved a significant milestone by capturing the first complete images of the Sun using the Solar Ultraviolet Imaging Telescope (SUIT) instrument on board.

Photo Credit: ISRO/Twitter

SUIT utilises various filters to capture images of the Sun's photosphere and chromosphere within a specific wavelength range, providing unprecedented insights.

Photo Credit: Pixabay

ISRO emphasises that observations from Aditya-L1 will contribute to a comprehensive understanding of the magnetised solar atmosphere, shedding light on the impact of solar radiation on Earth's climate.

Photo Credit: NASA

Placed in a halo orbit around L1, Aditya-L1 enjoys continuous visibility of the Sun, enabling real-time observation of solar activities without any occultation or eclipses.

Photo Credit: ISRO

The spacecraft is equipped with seven payloads designed to observe the photosphere, chromosphere, and the Sun's outermost layers (corona) using electromagnetic, particle, and magnetic field detectors.

Photo Credit: NASA

ISRO highlights that Aditya-L1's scientific studies will unravel the secrets of the Sun's photosphere and chromosphere, providing crucial insights into solar dynamics in the interplanetary medium.

Photo Credit: ISRO

As Aditya-L1 approaches Lagrange Point 1, anticipation grows for the wealth of scientific knowledge it is poised to uncover, marking a significant leap forward in India's space exploration endeavours.