India’s pioneering solar observatory mission, Aditya-L1, has achieved a significant milestone by capturing its first major scientific result. Utilizing the Visible Emission Line Coronagraph (VELC) instrument, scientists have precisely determined the onset time of a coronal mass ejection (CME) that erupted from the Sun on July 16, 2024.
Precise CME Onset Detection
The VELC instrument aboard Aditya-L1 provided unique data enabling researchers to accurately estimate the initiation of the CME. This accomplishment marks the first scientific result from India’s maiden solar mission. Observing CMEs as they originate on the Sun and understanding their plasma characteristics are among VELC’s primary scientific objectives.
Advancements in Solar Observation
The VELC, designed and built by the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) in collaboration with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), is currently the only operational coronagraph capable of routinely observing the near-Sun corona and its eruptions. This capability allows scientists to study CMEs very close to the solar surface, providing valuable insights into coronal conditions during CME onset and aiding in modeling these phenomena.
Continuous Monitoring Amid Solar Activity
As the Sun approaches the maximum phase of its current solar cycle, CMEs are expected to occur more frequently. Continuous monitoring with VELC is anticipated to yield extensive scientific data, enhancing our understanding of solar eruptions and their impact on space weather.
The success of Aditya-L1’s initial observations underscores India’s growing capabilities in space-based solar research and contributes significantly to global efforts in understanding solar dynamics.
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