Scientists from the IIA and their international partners have combined data from India’s Aditya‑L1 and ESA’s Proba‑3 to study CMEs in the low solar corona.
Key Developments
- Joint observations were made using the VELC payload (spectroscopy) and the ASPIICS payload (imaging), covering the same region of the corona.
- Only two CMEs, on 14 September 2025 and 16 September 2025, were recorded simultaneously by both instruments between July and December 2025.
- VELC captured the eruptions at an early stage, while ASPIICS provided sharp white‑light images, allowing independent estimates of mass, density and thermal energy.
Important Facts
The 14 September CME was fast, travelling at about 645 km/s. Its thermal energy was only ~1 % of the total energy, while magnetic energy was comparable to kinetic energy. The 16 September CME moved slower at 145 km/s. Its density fell more steeply with height, indicating strong early expansion. Thermal energy grew until it matched kinetic energy, and magnetic energy again rivaled kinetic energy. Despite using different geometric assumptions, mass and thermal‑energy estimates from VELC and ASPIICS agreed closely.
Exam Relevance
Understanding CME dynamics is vital for space‑weather forecasting, which affects satellite operations, navigation, power grids and communication—areas covered under GS4: Science & Technology. The collaboration showcases India’s growing capability in solar research, complementing the broader ISRO agenda of international partnerships. It also illustrates the scientific method of cross‑checking observations from multiple instruments, a principle relevant to policy‑making and technology assessment.
Way Forward
- Increase coordinated observation windows between ISRO and ESA to capture more CME events.
- Develop data‑sharing platforms for real‑time analysis, aiding early warning systems for geomagnetic storms.
- Encourage Indian research institutions to propose joint studies using Aditya‑L1 data, strengthening India’s role in global solar‑physics research.