Proba-3 precision laser calibration for artificial solar eclipse mission
by Erica Marchand
Paris, France (SPX) Nov 25, 2024
ESA’s Proba-3 mission, a groundbreaking double-spacecraft formation flying project, is set for launch on December 4 from India. The mission aims to achieve artificial solar eclipses on demand, relying on advanced positioning technologies, including a precision laser system that enables the spacecraft to maintain their precise alignment in orbit.
The Proba-3 mission comprises two spacecraft – the Occulter and the Coronagraph – which will fly in tandem approximately 150 meters apart. Their coordinated operation will allow the Occulter to create a shadow precisely aligned on the Coronagraph for up to six hours. This alignment is critical for the mission’s goal of solar observation, creating eclipses that block sunlight while revealing the solar corona for scientific study.
Key to this precision is a laser metrology system. During ground calibration testing in February at Redwire Space in Kruibeke, Belgium, a laser was fired from the Occulter spacecraft to a retroreflector on the Coronagraph spacecraft. The reflected beam offers unparalleled positioning accuracy, achieving precision down to a single millimeter. This system complements other sensors such as inter-satellite radio links, Global Navigation Satellite System receivers, and visual LED imaging.
Additionally, Shadow Position Sensors around the coronagraph aperture ensure the shadow from the Occulter remains correctly positioned, a necessity for achieving the mission’s scientific objectives. The infrared laser beam calibration test, shown in an image shared by ESA, highlights the advanced collaboration between ESA, MDA, and Belgium’s Centre Spatial de Liege.
Proba-3 represents a multinational effort led by Spain’s SENER, with contributions from 29 companies across 14 countries. The spacecraft platforms were designed by Airbus Defence and Space in Spain, with integration by Redwire in Belgium. Formation flying subsystems were developed by GMV in Spain, and the primary coronagraph instrument was provided by Belgium’s CSL.
The mission will be launched aboard an Indian PSLV-XL rocket by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). Updates and mission progress can be followed on the Proba-3 blog at blogs.esa.int/proba-3.
Related Links
Proba-3 at ESA
Solar Science News at SpaceDaily
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