The European Space Agency (ESA) and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) are collaborating on an innovative space mission named Proba-3, set to launch in 2024. This mission will achieve the world's first man-made solar eclipse, a pioneering demonstration of precise satellite formation flying.
Proba-3 consists of two small satellites: the Coronagraph spacecraft and the Occulter spacecraft. These satellites will be launched together and then separate to fly in a precise formation at a distance of 144 meters from each other.
Key Highlights:
Proba-3 will create the world's first man-made solar eclipse using two satellites.
The mission showcases advanced satellite formation flying technology.
It enables detailed study of the Sun’s corona, enhancing solar research.
The primary scientific goal is to create an artificial solar eclipse, allowing the Coronagraph to study the Sun’s corona without the interference of its bright light. This will enable continuous observations of the Sun's outer atmosphere, aiding in solar research.
Proba-3 will validate critical technologies and techniques for highly precise satellite formation flying, opening new avenues for future multi-satellite missions. The satellites will maintain formation autonomously, without ground guidance, showcasing advancements in space navigation and control. The mission will also test collision avoidance maneuvers and various algorithms essential for future space operations, including Mars sample return missions and de-orbiting satellites.
The mission will be in a highly elliptical orbit, with each orbit divided between six hours of formation flying and passive drifting. During the formation flying phase, the satellites will conduct scientific observations and formation flying exercises. This mission will serve as a laboratory in space, providing data and insights crucial for the development of future space missions involving multiple satellites.
Proba-3 represents a significant milestone in space exploration, demonstrating the potential of satellite formation flying and providing valuable scientific data on the Sun. The collaboration between ESA and ISRO exemplifies the growing trend of international cooperation in space research and technology development.
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