The Aditya-L1 spacecraft accomplished a 16-second Trajectory Correction Maneuver (TCM) with success on October 6, 2023. This maneuver, verified by the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO), followed the Trans-Lagrangean Point 1 Insertion (TLII) maneuver on September 19, which necessitated alterations to its trajectory.
The TCM was vital for Aditya-L1's journey to a Halo orbit around L1. ISRO confirmed its good health and progress. Aditya-L1 completed four Earth maneuvers, including the crucial TLII maneuver that freed it from Earth's gravity. It also started its scientific mission, collecting data with the STEPS instrument, offering insights into particle behaviour near Earth.
Aditya-L1 Mission:
— ISRO (@isro) October 8, 2023
The Spacecraft is healthy and on its way to Sun-Earth L1.
A Trajectory Correction Maneuvre (TCM), originally provisioned, was performed on October 6, 2023, for about 16 s. It was needed to correct the trajectory evaluated after tracking the Trans-Lagrangean…
Aditya-L1 was launched shortly after Chandrayaan-3's successful Moon landing. It carries seven instruments for in-depth solar study, focusing on solar light and real-time measurement of plasma and magnetic fields. Its main goal is a halo orbit at L1, 1.5 million km from Earth in the Sun's direction, with a four-month journey. This location enables uninterrupted solar observations, aiding real-time monitoring of solar activities and their impact on space weather, and enhancing understanding of solar eruptions and space weather drivers.
The accomplished TCM marks another important achievement for Aditya-L1, edging India closer to uncovering the enigmas surrounding the Sun's outer regions and its impact on space weather, a realm of great consequence for space exploration and Earth's technological systems. To stay updated on the Aditya-L1 mission, please subscribe to ISRO's official channels and remain informed about the ongoing discoveries in the worldwide scientific community.