1. What is the Aditya-L1 mission?
Aditya-L1 is India’s first mission to study the Sun, aiming to observe the solar atmosphere and gather data on solar phenomena like flares and coronal mass ejections.
2. Why study the Sun?
Understanding the Sun is crucial because it is the primary energy source for Earth, affecting space weather, climate, and satellite operations. Studying the Sun helps us to anticipate and mitigate the effects of solar activity on Earth.
3. What will Aditya-L1 observe?
The mission will observe the Sun’s photosphere, chromosphere, and outer corona, providing insights into the Sun’s magnetic field and its impact on the solar wind and space weather.
4. What are Lagrangian points, and why is Aditya-L1 placed at L1?
Lagrangian points are positions in space where gravitational forces balance, allowing spacecraft to remain in stable positions. Aditya-L1 is placed at L1, which is between Earth and the Sun, providing an uninterrupted view of the Sun.
5. What phenomena does Aditya-L1 aim to study?
It aims to study solar flares, coronal mass ejections, and the solar wind, which are crucial for understanding the Sun’s influence on the heliosphere and space weather dynamics.
6. How will the mission contribute to space weather prediction?
By monitoring solar activities and disturbances, Aditya-L1 will provide data to help predict and prepare for space weather events that can affect Earth’s satellites and communications.
7. What scientific instruments are onboard Aditya-L1?
The spacecraft carries instruments to measure solar emissions, magnetic fields, and particles, allowing for comprehensive solar and space environment studies.
8. How does the mission help protect Earth’s technology infrastructure?
By improving our understanding of solar storms and their impacts, we can better protect satellites, power grids, and communication networks from solar-induced disturbances.
9. What is the significance of studying the Sun’s corona?
The corona, the Sun’s outer atmosphere, is where solar winds and solar flares originate. Studying it helps us understand these phenomena and their potential impacts on the solar system.
10. How does the mission advance our knowledge of the universe?
Aditya-L1 contributes to our understanding of stellar physics and the behavior of other stars, enriching our knowledge of astrophysical processes.
11. What is the expected duration of the Aditya-L1 mission?
The mission is designed for a minimum duration of 5 years, but it could extend further based on the spacecraft’s performance and ongoing scientific objectives.
12. What makes Aditya-L1 unique compared to other solar missions?
It is India’s first dedicated solar mission that will study the Sun from a vantage point providing continuous observations, which is critical for real-time space weather monitoring.
