AstroSat: A Decade of India’s Multi-Wavelength Space Exploration
Context:
- AstroSat, India’s first dedicated multi-wavelength space observatory, has completed 10 years in orbit since its launch on 28 September 2015.
- Launched by PSLV-C30 from Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota, it represents a major milestone in India’s space-based astronomy capabilities.
- The mission reflects India’s ability to conduct independent astronomical research while contributing to global science.
About AstroSat – India’s First Space Observatory
1. What is AstroSat?
- India’s first dedicated space astronomy observatory capable of observing the universe in ultraviolet (UV), visible, soft X-ray, and hard X-ray bands simultaneously.
- Designed to provide Indian scientists with space-based observational capabilities, reducing dependence on foreign observatories.
- Developed as a collaborative project of ISRO, premier Indian research institutes, and international partners from Canada and the UK.
2. Launch Details:
- Launch Date: 28 September 2015
- Launch Vehicle: PSLV-C30 (XL configuration)
- Launch Site: Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota
3. Objectives of the Mission:
- Enable simultaneous multi-band observations of celestial phenomena.
- Provide Indian astronomers independent access to space-based observational tools.
- Contribute to global astronomy research through open access for scientists worldwide.
Key Features and Payloads
- AstroSat carries five advanced payloads, each designed for specific observations:
- Ultra Violet Imaging Telescope (UVIT) – Observes in the UV spectrum.
- Large Area X-ray Proportional Counter (LAXPC) – Studies X-ray emissions from cosmic sources.
- Cadmium–Zinc–Telluride Imager (CZTI) – Detects hard X-rays and monitors gamma-ray bursts.
- Soft X-ray Telescope (SXT) – Provides imaging and spectroscopy in soft X-rays.
- Scanning Sky Monitor (SSM) – Continuously monitors X-ray sources across the sky.
Major Discoveries and Contributions:
- Solved the puzzle of a red giant star’s unusual brightness.
- Detected far-UV photons from galaxies around 9 billion light-years away.
- Revealed extended emission from the Butterfly Nebula.
- Discovered fast-spinning black holes and studied X-ray binary systems.
- Conducted X-ray polarization studies and captured galaxy merger events.
Significance of AstroSat:
1. Scientific Breakthroughs:
- Provided India with a world-class astronomy platform, enabling studies on black holes, neutron stars, and galaxies.
- Contributed significantly to high-energy astrophysics and cosmic phenomenon research.
2. Capacity Building:
- Nurtured the next generation of Indian astronomers, with 50% of users being Indian students and researchers.
- Strengthened India’s human resources in space science and astronomy.
Conclusion:
- AstroSat’s 10-year journey demonstrates India’s technological prowess and scientific vision.
- The observatory continues to unlock the mysteries of the universe while ensuring India’s active participation in global astronomical research.
- Its success highlights India’s commitment to innovation, collaboration, and knowledge creation in space science.
Source : The Hindu
