What is the primary function of the Solar Wind Ion Spectrometer (SWIS), included in the ASPEX payload on Aditya-L1?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: D
Explanation
Correct Answer: Option 4 (Detects the directional flow of solar wind protons and helium nuclei)
Explanation:
The ASPEX (Aditya Solar Wind Particle Experiment) payload on the Aditya-L1 mission has two main components, one of which is the SWIS (Solar Wind Ion Spectrometer). Its primary function is to accurately measure the energy spectrum and directional flow of protons and alpha particles (helium nuclei) present in the solar wind. This helps scientists understand the properties and behavior of the solar wind.
Additional Facts:
ASPEX has two components: It consists of two instruments—SWIS (for low-energy ions) and STEPS (Suprathermal and Energetic Particle Spectrometer—for high-energy ions).
Total Number of Payloads: Aditya-L1 has a total of 7 payloads, of which 4 directly observe the Sun and 3 conduct in-situ experiments.
L1 Point: The spacecraft is located in a halo orbit around Lagrange Point 1 (L1), approximately 1.5 million kilometers from Earth.
Possible questions for upcoming exams:
Which rocket launched the Aditya-L1 mission?
(Answer: PSLV-C57)
What is the primary purpose of the PAP (Plasma Analyzer Package for Aditya) payload? (Answer: Understanding the composition and energy distribution of the solar wind)
What is the estimated duration of the Aditya-L1 mission?
(Answer: Approximately 5.2 years)