As the Indian Space Research Organisation readies itself to launch the Aditya-L1 solar mission on September 2, the spotlight turns to an array of captivating solar exploration endeavors undertaken by space agencies worldwide. These missions offer a breathtaking glimpse into the celestial ballet of our closest star, the Sun.
United States: The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) took a historic stride with the Parker Solar Probe’s launch in August 2018. In a groundbreaking feat, the probe pierced the Sun’s corona in December 2021, gathering elusive particles and magnetic fields. NASA’s collaborative spirit shone through its partnership with the European Space Agency (ESA) for The Solar Orbiter mission, unveiling the Sun’s secrets of shaping space dynamics.
NASA’s constellation of solar missions includes the trailblazing Advanced Composition Explorer (1997), Solar Terrestrial Relations Observatory (2006), Solar Dynamics Observatory (2010), and Interface Region Imaging Spectrograph (2013). The tri-agency effort of NASA, ESA, and JAXA birthed the Solar and Heliospheric Observatory (SOHO) in 1995, adding another chapter to solar discovery.
Japan: The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) embarked on an enlightening journey with Hinotori (ASTRO-A) in 1981, pioneering solar flare investigation using hard X-rays. Yohkoh (SOLAR-A) in 1991 and Hinode (SOLAR-B) in 2006 pushed the boundaries of solar understanding, with the latter’s international partnership with the US and UK accentuating its significance. JAXA’s unwavering commitment shines in missions like Transient Region and Coronal Explorer (TRACE) with NASA (1998).
Europe: The European Space Agency (ESA) etched its mark with the 1990 Ulysses launch, scrutinizing the Sun’s poles and environs. Proba-2 (2001) continued the legacy, enriching solar studies. Notable ESA-NASA-JAXA collaborations, such as SOHO (1995), intensified the solar exploration quest.
China: China’s National Space Science Center catapulted the Advanced Space-based Solar Observatory (ASO-S) into orbit in 2022, carving its path in solar investigation.
From NASA’s audacious probes to JAXA’s celestial symphonies, and ESA’s steadfast dedication to China’s rising presence, these missions exemplify humanity’s resolute pursuit of solar enlightenment. As Aditya-L1 prepares for its voyage, a tapestry of international collaborations unfurls, unraveling the Sun’s enigma and weaving a vibrant narrative of cosmic exploration.
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