How ISRO Protects Indian Satellites from Powerful Solar Storm

ISRO effectively protected India's satellites from a powerful solar storm in May 2024 through proactive sensor deactivation and real-time adjustments, ensuring uninterrupted operation of critical space infrastructure. This highlights the importance of space weather monitoring and preparedness.

In early May 2024, Earth faced its strongest solar storm in twenty years. Solar flares and coronal mass ejections (CMEs) sent charged particles towards our planet, threatening satellites and power grids globally.

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) took swift action to protect India’s space assets. ISRO’s Master Control Facility (MCF) meticulously tracked the storm's progress and its effects on India's over 50 satellites in orbit.

Key Measures Taken by ISRO:

1. Proactive Sensor Deactivation: ISRO deactivated certain sensors on its satellites to protect them from the storm's electromagnetic surges. 

2. Maintaining Stability: ISRO monitored changes in satellite behavior, such as variations in momentum and electrical currents. Real-time adjustments were made to ensure satellite stability.

These measures proved highly effective. India's network of 30 geostationary satellites, crucial for communication and navigation, remained unaffected. Earth observation satellites, essential for environmental monitoring, continued to function without issues.

The solar storm did cause some minor consequences. The increased atmospheric density from the solar activity could lead to a slightly faster descent of satellites, requiring future adjustments. However, ISRO’s Navigation Centre reported no significant impact on its NaVIC navigation system.

Importance of Space Weather Monitoring

ISRO’s success in protecting its satellites during this powerful solar storm underscores the importance of space weather monitoring and preparedness. Proactive measures and real-time adjustments ensured the continued operation of critical space infrastructure, showcasing India’s growing capabilities in space technology and exploration.

For more information on space weather and its impacts on satellites, you can refer to resources from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the European Space Agency (ESA).

ISRO's effective response during this event highlights the critical role of continuous monitoring and preparedness in safeguarding our space assets from natural cosmic events.