India Plans DISHA Mission to Protect Satellites from Solar Storms
India is set to protect its satellites from solar storms with the DISHA Mission, announced at a solar physics conference in Udaipur.
UDAIPUR, Oct 29: India is preparing to safeguard its satellites from adverse solar activity via the upcoming DISHA Mission, announced during a National Solar Physics Conference in Udaipur. Professor D. Pallam Raju, Dean of the Physical Research Laboratory (PRL) in Ahmedabad, explained that this initiative will be executed by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).
The DISHA Mission will investigate the upper atmosphere, specifically the ionosphere and thermosphere, to assess how solar activity impacts low-Earth orbit satellites, communication, and navigation systems. The program is designed as a twin-satellite mission, aiming to provide timely data about solar conditions to mitigate potential satellite damage.
“This mission is crucial for understanding changes in the ionosphere during solar storms, which can disturb satellite operations,” Professor Raju stated. The conference at the Udaipur Solar Observatory features around 75 scientists and researchers discussing advancements in solar research.
PRL Director Professor Anil Bhardwaj noted that fostering collaboration through interactive discussions marks a shift from traditional lectures. He emphasized that this approach could enhance ongoing solar research in India. The conference also celebrates the 51st anniversary of the Udaipur Solar Observatory, which has played a significant role in solar studies since its establishment in 1975.
In addition to DISHA, ISRO is looking ahead to establishing an Indian Space Station by 2035 and plans further missions like Chandrayaan, indicating a strong commitment to advancing space exploration.
Sources
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.