Proba-3 Mission

India's Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) is set to launch the Proba-3 mission, marking a significant step towards solar research. 

---

Key Highlights

• It is the European Space Agency’s (ESA) mission aims to study the Sun’s corona (the outer layer of its atmosphere) using two satellites in a unique parallel formation. 
• The satellites will create an artificial eclipse in space, allowing for detailed observations of the Sun’s corona.

 

Significance of the Proba-3 Mission:

• Advancing Solar Research: The mission will provide crucial data for understanding solar dynamics and improve space weather forecasting, which is important for protecting satellites from solar storms.
• International Collaboration: Proba-3 exemplifies international cooperation, with contributions from ESA member states like France, Belgium, and the Netherlands, alongside ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation).
• Future of Space Exploration: The success of Proba-3 could lead to future multi-satellite missions, enhancing our ability to study space weather and its effects on Earth’s technological infrastructure.