Proba-3 Mission: Full Form, Launch Details, Role of ISRO
The Proba-3 mission has been successfully launched by ISRO using the PSLV-XL rocket. ESA’s Proba-3 Mission aims to study the Sun's corona and how solar activity impacts space weather.
Deeksha Dixit5 Dec, 2024
Share
The Proba-3 Mission is an ambitious collaboration between the European Space Agency (ESA) and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). It is designed to study the Sun's corona using two high-tech satellites.
The Proba-3 mission will create artificial solar eclipses in Earth’s orbit, allowing researchers to study the Sun's outer atmosphere in more detail. The Proba-3 mission launched from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre on December 5, 2024.Proba-3 Mission Full Form
The Proba-3 Mission stands for "Project for On-Board Autonomy". The mission's name reflects its advanced technology focused on onboard autonomous operations. Proba-3 is part of the ESA’s Proba program, which is known for deploying small, cost-effective satellites with advanced technology for various space studies.What is Proba-3 Mission?
The Proba-3 mission is a unique project developed by the European Space Agency (ESA) with a team of 14 European countries and 29 industrial partners. This mission is aimed at studying the Sun's corona, which is its outermost layer. Proba-3 is designed to operate two satellites in a precise formation flight. This setup allows for a much closer examination of the corona and related solar activities.
Image Credit: www.esa.in
What is Unique About Proba-3 Mission?
The Proba-3 mission stands out because of its precision formation flying technology . Unlike typical space missions that deploy a single satellite for research, Proba-3 employs two satellites namely Occulter Spacecraft (200 kg) and the Coronagraph Spacecraft (340 kg). These satellites will fly in precise formation, mimicking a solar eclipse to block sunlight and observe the faint solar corona.Proba-3 Mission Objectives
The primary objective of the Proba-3 mission is to study the Sun's outer layer and its behavior. The corona is known to influence space weather, which can impact Earth’s magnetosphere, communication systems, and satellite operations. Here are some of the key objectives of the Proba-3 mission:- Demonstrate Precise Formation Flying: Showcase the ability of two satellites to maintain millimeter-level accuracy while flying in formation.
- Study Solar Dynamics: Provide insights into solar phenomena, such as coronal mass ejections (CMEs) and variations in solar irradiance, that affect space weather and Earth’s systems.
- Validate New Technologies: Test and validate new algorithms and techniques for satellite navigation, guidance, and control in a real-world space environment.
Proba-3 Mission Launch Details
The Proba-3 Mission, developed at an estimated cost of €200 million, was launched by ESA in partnership with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). The mission’s satellites were launched using India’s PSLV-C59 rocket. Here are key launch details:| Proba-3 Mission Launch Details | |
| Proba-3 Mission launched by | Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) in collaboration with ESA |
| Launch Location | Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh |
| Proba-3 launch date | December 5, 2024 |
| Launch Vehicle | Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV-C59) |
| Satellites | Coronagraph spacecraft and solar-disc-shaped Occulter spacecraft |
| Orbit Details | Highly elliptical orbit of 600 x 60,530 km with an orbital period of 19.7 hours |
Significance of ISRO’s Involvement
ISRO's participation in the Proba-3 mission highlights India's growing influence in the global space arena. Here’s why ISRO’s involvement is crucial:- Technological Leadership: By successfully launching Proba-3, ISRO demonstrates its capabilities in handling complex international missions.
- Global Collaboration: Partnering with ESA highlights ISRO’s role in promoting worldwide cooperation in space science.
- Cost-Effective Solutions: ISRO’s cost-effective launch services make it a preferred partner for international missions.
- Boosting India’s Solar Ambitions: The mission aligns with India’s goals of advancing solar research and developing sustainable space technologies.
| UPSC Related Articles | ||
| Windfall Tax | Mission Karmayogi | High Seas Treaty |
| Parliament Sessions | BRICS Summit 2024 | Anti-Defection Law |
Proba-3 Mission FAQs
What is the Proba-3 Mission?
The Proba-3 Mission is a joint effort by ESA and ISRO to study the Sun’s corona using two satellites flying in precise formation.
Proba-3 Mission launched by which country?
The mission was launched by India, in collaboration with ESA, from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre.
What is the Proba-3 launch date?
The Proba-3 satellites were launched on December 5, 2024.
Why is the Proba-3 Mission significant?
It enables extended studies of the Sun’s corona, demonstrates advanced formation-flying technology, and fosters international collaboration.
Which organization launched ESA's solar study mission in Proba-3?
Indian Space Research Organisation(ISRO) launched ESA's solar study mission, Proba-3.
Talk to a counsellorHave doubts? Our support team will be happy to assist you!
Check out these Related Articles
Join 15 Million students on the app today!
Live & recorded classes available at easeDashboard for progress trackingMillions of practice questions at your fingertips
Free Learning Resources
PW Books
Notes (Class 10-12)
PW Study Materials
Notes (Class 6-9)
Ncert Solutions
Govt Exams
Class 6th to 12th Online Courses
Govt Job Exams Courses
UPSC Coaching
Defence Exam Coaching
Gate Exam Coaching
Other Exams
Know about Physics Wallah
Physics Wallah is an Indian edtech platform that provides accessible & comprehensive learning experiences to students from Class 6th to postgraduate level. We also provide extensive NCERT solutions, sample paper, NEET, JEE Mains, BITSAT previous year papers & more such resources to students. Physics Wallah also caters to over 3.5 million registered students and over 78 lakh+ Youtube subscribers with 4.8 rating on its app.
We Stand Out because
We provide students with intensive courses with India’s qualified & experienced faculties & mentors. PW strives to make the learning experience comprehensive and accessible for students of all sections of society. We believe in empowering every single student who couldn't dream of a good career in engineering and medical field earlier.
Our Key Focus Areas
Physics Wallah's main focus is to make the learning experience as economical as possible for all students. With our affordable courses like Lakshya, Udaan and Arjuna and many others, we have been able to provide a platform for lakhs of aspirants. From providing Chemistry, Maths, Physics formula to giving e-books of eminent authors like RD Sharma, RS Aggarwal and Lakhmir Singh, PW focuses on every single student's need for preparation.
What Makes Us Different
Physics Wallah strives to develop a comprehensive pedagogical structure for students, where they get a state-of-the-art learning experience with study material and resources. Apart from catering students preparing for JEE Mains and NEET, PW also provides study material for each state board like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and others
Copyright © 2025 Physicswallah Limited All rights reserved.