What is Space Science and Astronomy?
- Astronomy is the study of stars, planets, moons, comets, and everything in the universe.
- Space Science is a broader field that includes astronomy and also studies things like space exploration, satellites, and the behavior of space objects.
Basics of Astronomy and Space Exploration
- The Universe: It’s huge and contains everything—planets, stars, galaxies, black holes, and more.
- Planets and Stars: Planets orbit stars. Our Earth orbits the Sun, which is a star.
- Space Exploration: This means sending spacecraft, satellites, and astronauts to explore space.
Key Concepts:
- Galaxies: Huge systems of stars, like the Milky Way (our galaxy).
- Solar System: The Sun and everything that orbits it, including Earth, Mars, Jupiter, etc.
- Gravity: The force that pulls objects together, like how the Earth pulls us to the ground.
Satellite Technology and Applications
Satellites are objects sent into space to orbit Earth or other planets. They help us in many ways:
- Communication: Satellites help with TV broadcasts, phone calls, and the internet.
- Weather Monitoring: They track weather patterns, storms, and climate changes.
- GPS Navigation: GPS satellites help us find locations on our phones.
- Earth Observation: Satellites monitor forests, oceans, and agricultural activities.
- Scientific Research: Some satellites study space, stars, and the Earth’s atmosphere.
Space Missions of ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation)
ISRO is India’s space agency, and it has launched some amazing missions:
1. Chandrayaan-1 (2008)
- Mission: India’s first lunar mission.
- Goal: To study the Moon’s surface and find water molecules.
- Success: Discovered water on the Moon, which was a huge breakthrough!
2. Chandrayaan-2 (2019)
- Mission: A follow-up to Chandrayaan-1, aimed at landing a rover on the Moon.
- Components: Orbiter, lander (Vikram), and rover (Pragyan).
- Result: The orbiter is still working and sending data. The lander crash-landed, but it helped in learning valuable lessons.
3. Mangalyaan (Mars Orbiter Mission) (2013)
- Mission: India’s first mission to Mars.
- Goal: To study Mars’ surface, atmosphere, and mineral composition.
- Success: India became the first country to reach Mars on its first attempt, and it’s still active today!
Summary:
- Astronomy studies stars, planets, and galaxies.
- Space Science explores how space works, including satellites and space missions.
- Satellites help with communication, weather, navigation, and scientific research.
- ISRO’s missions like Chandrayaan and Mangalyaan show India’s growing space exploration achievements.
