INTRODUCTION
- On October 14, 2021, China launched the solar observation satellite using a Long March 2D rocket into a 571-kilometer orbit. For 3 years, the 550-kg satellite will track the Sun.
- First solar observation satellite by China is the Xihe satellite. It is equipped with CHASE imaging spectrometer allowing scientists to observe the deep-red H-Alpha line of the solar spectrum that provides data for eruptions on the Sun’s surface or scientists to research solar flares.
- The satellite model will be on display at the Zhuhai Air Show in September 2021.
XIHE SATELLITE –
- The satellite is named after the Mother Goddess of the Sun Gods, a Chinese legendary character and weighs 550 kilogrammes (110 pounds). It is expected to last three years. It will continue to observe the Sun until 2025, when the Sun reaches its greatest brightness and will orbit the Earth in a Sun-synchronous orbit.
- The Xihe satellite will monitor changes in speed and atmospheric temperature, physical mechanisms of eruptions and providing data for researching the dynamics during solar eruptions,. The satellite’s primary distinguishing traits include ultra-high precision and ultra-stability.
BENEFIT OF CHINA’S SPACE SOLAR EXPLORATION –
- China’s first solar observation spacecraft, the Xihe satellite, is projected to boost China’s international prominence in the field of solar physics. The satellite will allow China to conduct space solar exploration, which will help Chinese basic science research, speed up worldwide solar physics research, and enhance the growth of relevant high-tech companies.
- China has made significant investments in space exploration. It is seen as a serious contender in the space race. It has pushed several important space programmes, including missions to the Moon and Mars. Chang’e 5, China’s Moon probe, is on track to reach the L5 Lagrange point, a gravitational balance point between the Sun and Earth.
