India’s first solar observatory, Aditya-l1 set to observe Sun’s maximum activity in 2026

Aditya-L1 Set To Observe Sun’s Maximum Activity In 2026 (Image: Canva)

2026 is set to be a landmark year for India’s sun mission. India’s first solar observatory, Aditya-L1 will observe the Sun during its peak activity. Scientists hope to study powerful solar storms, coronal mass ejections and their impacts.

India’s first solar observatory, Aditya-L1, launched last year successfully. In 2026, it will observe the Sun’s maximum activity. Solar maximum occurs every eleven years when magnetic poles flip. This period causes the Sun to transition from calm to stormy. Number of coronal mass ejections, or CMEs, increases daily.

CMEs are massive bubbles of fire from Sun’s corona. They carry charged particles weighing up to one trillion kilograms. Speeds can reach three thousand kilometres per second easily. At full speed, CMEs reach Earth within fifteen hours. CMEs can impact satellites, power grids and communication networks.

VELC instrument acts like an artificial Moon blocking Sun’s surface. This allows continuous study of the faint outer corona always. It measures temperature, heat and energy of solar eruptions. Other missions cannot observe visible-light eruptions with such precision. Data helps scientists predict the strength and Earth-bound trajectory.

CMEs can trigger geomagnetic storms, creating auroras in the skies. They may also damage satellites or knock down power grids. Past events include the 1859 Carrington Event and 1989 Quebec outage.

Analysis of 2024 CME calibrates instruments for the upcoming solar peak. Energy levels reached 2.2 million megatons, showing extreme solar power.

Aditya-L1 provides both scientific insight and protective forecasting capability. Understanding solar storms will help secure near-Earth infrastructure effectively. 2026 offers a unique chance for detailed observations of the Sun.

India positions itself among leading nations in solar research innovation. Mission success will enhance knowledge of Sun-Earth interactions and risks.