December 8, 2024 – Air Marshal's Perspective

December 8, 2024

552: FORMATION FLYING IN SPACE

Pic Courtesy Net

My Article published on the EurasianTimes Website on 08 Dec 24

On 05 Dec 24, India’s PSLV-C59 successfully launched the European Space Agency’s (ESA) Proba-3 mission. This marked a significant milestone in international space collaboration. The Proba-3 mission consists of two satellites, the Coronagraph Spacecraft (CSC) and the Occulter Spacecraft (OSC), deployed into a highly elliptical orbit. Proba-3 is designed to demonstrate precision formation flying, with the two satellites maintaining a separation of about 150 meters with millimeter accuracy. Together, they will create an artificial solar eclipse, a unique event in space science, to study the Sun’s corona for extended periods—far exceeding the brief duration of natural eclipses. This is expected to advance understanding of phenomena such as the Sun’s corona’s high temperatures and the acceleration of the solar wind. The mission was managed by NewSpace India Limited (NSIL), with the launch conducted from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota. It demonstrates the growing role of India’s space program in facilitating advanced scientific research.

PSLV-C59 Rocket

The PSLV (Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle) is one of India’s most reliable and versatile rockets, developed by ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation). It can launch satellites into polar and geostationary orbits and is known for its cost-efficiency and successful track record.

PSLV is a four-stage rocket, with the first three stages powered by solid and liquid propulsion systems and the fourth stage a liquid engine. It is equipped with a strap-on motor that increases its lift capacity. The PSLV can carry a variety of payloads, from small satellites to heavier, larger payloads, and has been used for missions ranging from Earth observation to interplanetary exploration.

PSLV has been ISRO’s workhorse. It is responsible for successfully launching many important missions, such as the Mars Orbiter Mission (Mangalyaan) and the Chandrayaan-2 mission to the Moon. Over the years, it has gained a reputation for its high reliability.

PSLV-C59 again showcased ISRO’s impressive capabilities, contributing to India’s space ambitions and international collaborations like ESA’s Proba-3 mission. The PSLV-C59 launch carried the Proba-3 satellites into a Sun-synchronous orbit, which is ideal for Earth observation satellites as it ensures consistent lighting conditions for imaging. The satellites were launched from India’s Sriharikota Spaceport (ISRO’s primary launch site), further highlighting India’s significant role in global space missions.

Proba-3

Proba-3 is the first mission designed to demonstrate precision formation flying in space. Formation flying is a technique where multiple spacecraft maintain a specific relative position to each other while flying in precise, coordinated orbits. In the case of Proba-3, the two spacecraft will need to stay in formation at around 150 meters. This high precision is achieved through advanced onboard sensors and algorithms that allow them to maintain the required relative positions. Both satellites maintain their formation using advanced control systems and GPS receivers. They will perform autonomous manoeuvres based on real-time sensor data, making the mission’s operation more efficient and reliable.

The mission’s goal, which is of utmost importance, is to observe the Sun’s corona using a coronagraph, a device that blocks out the Sun’s bright surface (photosphere) to reveal the much fainter outer layers of the Sun. This is crucial for studying solar, wind, and space weather phenomena, which can affect Earth’s communications, satellites, and even power grids. In addition to exploring the Sun, Proba-3 will provide valuable data on space weather dynamics, which is essential for protecting satellite systems from solar radiation and space debris. It will also help improve technologies for future missions that rely on formation flying, such as space telescopes or planetary exploration missions.

Formation Flying in Space

Formation Types. There are two types of formations. In the Fixed Formation, the spacecraft maintain a fixed distance and orientation relative to each other, as in the case of Proba-3’s dual spacecraft for solar observation. In Dynamic Formation, the spacecraft may change their relative positions, such as in missions where spacecraft need to move between different regions of space.

Technologies and Techniques. Formation flying involves multiple spacecraft that fly in precise, coordinated orbits and maintain a specific relative position to each other. Achieving this high precision requires advanced technologies and techniques.

- Onboard Sensors. Formation flying spacecraft typically use a combination of star trackers, gyroscopes, and GPS to measure their relative position. These sensors provide highly accurate data about their orientation and location in space.

- Inter-spacecraft Communication. The spacecraft in formation exchange information about their position and velocity, which helps each spacecraft adjust its trajectory to stay in formation.

- Autonomous Control Systems. Spacecraft are often equipped with autonomous guidance systems, which allow them to make real-time adjustments based on data from onboard sensors. This reduces the need for ground-based intervention, making the formation’s operation more efficient.

- Manoeuvre Algorithms. Specialised algorithms calculate the required adjustments to keep the spacecraft in precise formation using sensor data and communication systems. These algorithms consider factors like gravitational forces, drag, and orbital perturbations.

- Orbit Determination. For formations to remain stable, the spacecraft must be placed in carefully calculated orbits. These orbits are often designed to minimise fuel consumption while maintaining relative positions. Minor, controlled burns of the spacecraft’s thrusters are used to maintain formation over time.

Applications of Formation Flying

Space Telescopes. Formation flying enables the creation of large, virtual telescopes. Multiple satellites flying in formation can work together to create a larger aperture, effectively improving the resolution and sensitivity of observations. ESA’s LISA (Laser Interferometer Space Antenna) mission is an example of using formation flying for gravitational wave detection. Three spacecraft will maintain precise formation to measure tiny changes in distances between them caused by gravitational waves.

Earth Observation. Formation flying can be used for Earth monitoring. Multiple satellites fly in formation to observe the same area from different angles or across different wavelengths. This can improve data acquisition for environmental monitoring, disaster response, and scientific studies.

Space Weather Monitoring. Missions like Proba-3 that study the Sun and its effects on space weather benefit from formation flying because it allows precise control over the position of the instruments. This capability can lead to better observations of phenomena such as the solar wind and solar flares, helping to improve space weather forecasting.

Planetary and Deep Space Missions. Formation flying could be essential for missions to distant planets, moons, or asteroids. Multiple spacecraft in formation could study the same target from different perspectives or work together to analyse a single object more comprehensively.

ISRO: A Glimpse into the Future

Chandrayaan-3. After the success of Chandrayaan-1 and the recent Chandrayaan-2 mission, ISRO is preparing for Chandrayaan-3, aiming for a soft landing on the Moon. The mission will demonstrate ISRO’s capability to execute a precise lunar landing and continue studying the Moon’s surface.

Gaganyaan. ISRO’s first human spaceflight mission, Gaganyaan, is under development. It will carry Indian astronauts (called Gagannauts) into space aboard a crewed spacecraft. The mission is part of India’s ambition to become a major player in human space exploration, and it will lay the groundwork for future deep-space missions.

Aditya-L1. Aditya-L1 is ISRO’s first mission to study the Sun. It will be placed in the L1 Lagrangian point, where it can continuously observe the Sun without interruptions from Earth’s shadow. The mission will help study solar activities and space weather.

Mangalyaan-2. After the success of the Mars Orbiter Mission (Mangalyaan-1), ISRO plans to launch Mangalyaan-2, which could be an orbiter or a lander/rover mission to Mars. This will build on ISRO’s expertise in interplanetary exploration.

NISAR (NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar). This joint mission between NASA and ISRO will launch a radar imaging satellite to study Earth’s surface. The satellite will provide high-resolution Earth imagery to help with disaster management, agriculture, and climate monitoring. The radar data will also help detect changes in Earth’s surface, such as those caused by earthquakes or volcanic eruptions.

Space-Based Solar Power. Looking further ahead, ISRO has expressed interest in harnessing space-based solar power. This would involve satellites with solar panels collecting solar energy in space and beaming it to Earth as microwaves or laser beams.

Formation flying is a fascinating and rapidly developing field in space exploration. Its ability to create more powerful observational platforms and facilitate coordinated scientific missions will be increasingly important in future space endeavours. ISRO, with its proven expertise and ambitious missions, is sure to remain a key player in the growing global space community.

Your valuable comments are most welcome.

Link to the article on the website:

https://www.eurasiantimes.com/isro-launches-esas-proba-3-mission-to-study-suns/

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References and credits

To all the online sites and channels.

References:

European Space Agency (ESA). “Proba-3: A World First in Formation Flying.”

Wertz, J. R., Everett, D. F., & Puschell, J. J. (Eds.). Space Mission Engineering: The New SMAD. Microcosm Press, 2011.

Leonard, C. L., Hollister, W. M., & Jacobson, D. H. (1985). “Formation-Keeping for a Pair of Satellites in a Circular Orbit.” Journal of Guidance, Control, and Dynamics, 8(3), 235-242.

Wertz, J. R. (1999). “Autonomous Spacecraft Navigation Using Formation Flying.” Acta Astronautica, 45(4-9), 505-512.

NewSpace India Limited (NSIL). “PSLV-C59/Proba-3 Mission.” A detailed account of the Proba-3 mission objectives and its demonstration of formation flying is available on NSIL’s website.

Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). Future Missions Overview. Available at ISRO’s official website.

NewSpace India Limited (NSIL). Advancing India’s Space Ventures. Accessible on NSIL’s page.

Singh, Rajeshwari P. (2024). “India’s Space Odyssey: ISRO’s Vision for 2040.” Space Policy Journal.

The Economic Times. “ISRO’s Ambitious Gaganyaan Mission and Beyond.” A report.

Press Information Bureau (PIB). India’s Space Roadmap: Highlights from ISRO. Available at PIB’s official website.

European Space Agency (ESA). “Collaborating with ISRO on Future Space Technologies.” ESA official site.

The Hindu. “ISRO 2030: What Lies Ahead?” Analysis of ISRO’s evolving role in global space exploration.

Disclaimer:

Information and data included in the blog are for educational & non-commercial purposes only and have been carefully adapted, excerpted, or edited from reliable and accurate sources. All copyrighted material belongs to respective owners and is provided only for wider dissemination.

December 8, 2024December 8, 2024

551: SYRIAN CRISIS: GEOPOLITICAL UNCERTAINTIES

Syria - Global Centre for the Responsibility to Protect

My Article published on the EurasianTimes Website on 08 Dec 24.

The Syrian crisis has escalated significantly, with opposition forces making substantial territorial gains. Syrian rebels have declared that Damascus is “free,” claiming Bashar al-Assad has fled the capital. The rebels earlier claimed to have entered the capital and taken control of the notorious Saydnaya Military Prison north of Damascus. Reportedly, scenes of chaos are unfolding everywhere in Damascus as Syrian rebel forces continue their lightning advance into the capital city.

Syrian Prime Minister Mohammad Ghazi al-Jalali has said, “We are ready to cooperate with any leadership the people choose, offering all possible support to ensure a smooth and systematic transition of government functions and preserve state facilities.” The militant leader of Hayat Tahrir Al-Sham (HTS), the leading group driving the country’s armed opposition, released a statement calling on rebel forces to leave state institutions unharmed.

The Syrian conflict is experiencing a significant shift. This resurgence follows years of relative stalemate since the 2020 Idlib ceasefire. These developments have potential geopolitical ramifications, including challenges for Assad’s allies like Russia and Iran.

Syria’s Rebel Groups. The Syrian opposition consists of a diverse array of rebel groups and factions. These groups have varying degrees of influence and control across Syria. They are often linked to regional sponsors such as Turkey, the U.S., and the Gulf States. Syria’s rebel coalition consists of Islamist and moderate factions who, despite their differences, are united in fighting the Assad regime. The fragmentation among these groups complicates negotiations and challenges international peace efforts.

- Hayat Tahrir Al Sham (HTS). The most prominent and formidable group is HTS, also known as the Organisation for the Liberation of the Levant. HTS was founded by Abu Mohammad al-Jolani, a military commander who gained experience as a young fighter for al Qaeda against the United States in Iraq. He created Jabhat al-Nusra, al Qaeda’s Syrian affiliate, and operated the group until a public split with in 2016 over ideological differences and opposition to ISIS. Jolani formed HTS in 2017. Despite Jolani’s effort to distance HTS from al Qaeda and ISIS, the US and other Western countries designated it a terrorist organisation in 2018 and placed a $10 million bounty on him.

- The Syrian National Army (SNA). The Syrian National Army (SNA) is a coalition of various Syrian rebel factions, predominantly supported by Turkey, established in 2017. It was formed to consolidate opposition forces and strengthen their position against the Assad regime and Kurdish forces in Syria. The SNA has been active in northern Syria, especially in regions like Afrin and Azaz, and is involved in conflict zones such as Idlib. The group’s formation reflects Turkey’s influence in Syrian affairs and its aim to curb the Kurdish YPG’s influence.

- Syrian Democratic Forces. The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) is a multi-ethnic alliance of Kurdish, Arab, and other minority groups fighting against ISIS and other jihadist factions in Syria. It was established in 2015 with the support of the U.S. to provide stability in the region and counter ISIS’s control over significant parts of north-eastern Syria. The SDF has played a crucial role in the fight against ISIS.

- Free Syrian Army (FSA). The Free Syrian Army (FSA) is a loose coalition of rebel groups that emerged during the early stages of the Syrian civil war in 2011. It initially sought to overthrow the Assad regime but has since evolved into a broad-based opposition force with various factions, ranging from moderate to Islamist groups. The FSA is backed by Turkey, the U.S., and several Gulf states and has played a significant role in the conflict, particularly in the northern and southern regions of Syria. Its influence has fluctuated due to internal divisions and competition from other groups like Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS).

- Druze. In Syria’s south, fighters from the country’s Druze religious minority have also joined the fight. Druze are fighting in the southern city of as-Suwayda, which neighbours the Daraa province, where opposition forces claim to have taken control of Daraa city.

Geopolitical Consequences

Internal Power Struggle. Assad’s core territory is now fragmented. Losing Aleppo and Hama removes critical industrial and economic hubs. With the fall of Damascus, dwindling resources, and troop morale collapsing, Assad’s ability to mount counteroffensives is limited. This creates a vacuum, increasing the likelihood of factional infighting within his loyalist base or between foreign backers like Russia and Iran.

Regional Implications. Turkey gains in influence as its backed forces expand control. This supports Ankara’s goal of creating a buffer zone along its border to prevent Kurdish dominance. However, Turkey risks overextending itself as it juggles domestic instability and its role in NATO. Assad’s setbacks reduce Iran’s access to key routes for its “Shia Crescent” strategy, complicating support to Hezbollah in Lebanon. Iran might escalate direct military involvement, which could further drain its economy. Moscow’s efforts to maintain its naval base in Tartus and airbase in Latakia are under threat. Increased instability could undermine Russia’s ability to project power in the region, exposing it to higher costs and reduced influence. With Assad and Iran weakened, Israel may exploit the opportunity to target Hezbollah and Iranian forces in Syria, potentially leading to broader regional skirmishes.

Humanitarian Crisis. The opposition’s rapid advance has displaced hundreds of thousands, with more expected to flee as conflict zones expand. The UN and NGOs are struggling to provide aid, with many areas inaccessible. Neighbouring countries like Turkey and Jordan, already hosting millions of refugees, face additional strain, risking social and political unrest. In Europe, renewed refugee flows could exacerbate political divides over immigration, impacting EU cohesion and policy-making.

International Dynamics. The U.S. might aim to position the opposition for a post-conflict settlement, countering Russian and Iranian influence. However, this risks deepening U.S.-Russia tensions. The conflict’s escalation might draw in Saudi Arabia and Gulf allies on the side of opposition forces, intensifying competition with Iran. Meanwhile, though less directly involved, China may push for diplomatic solutions to protect its regional Belt and Road interests. The crisis could dominate discussions at the UN, with calls for new peace talks. However, divisions among global powers might stymie meaningful resolutions.

India and the Syrian Crisis: Challenges and Opportunities

Geopolitical Neutrality: Balancing Relationships. India should push for negotiations and political solutions through international bodies, supporting initiatives for a ceasefire and political settlement while avoiding direct involvement in military action. India needs to maintain a nuanced diplomatic approach with significant powers involved in Syria—particularly the U.S., Russia, and Iran. It should avoid becoming overly dependent on any nation’s stance to protect its strategic interests. Active participation in forums like the UN and BRICS can provide a platform for influencing discussions on Syria without directly taking sides.

Energy Security. To protect against potential supply disruptions from the Middle East, India must maintain and expand its strategic oil reserves, such as the Strategic Petroleum Reserves. Establishing relationships with non-Middle Eastern suppliers (e.g., Russia, Africa) can also provide alternatives. Strengthening ties with key oil-producing nations in the Gulf (e.g., Saudi Arabia, UAE) is vital. This can include trade agreements and economic partnerships to ensure stability in energy supply routes.

Humanitarian Aid. India could use humanitarian aid to bolster its image as a responsible global player and reinforce its commitment to international peace and security. It could expand financial and material support to affected populations in Syria through UN channels and bilateral assistance programs. This can include funding for healthcare, food, shelter, and education for displaced people. Collaboration with international partners to invest in rebuilding infrastructure, health, and education systems in conflict-affected areas can provide stability and foster goodwill.

The Syrian crisis has brought significant geopolitical uncertainties to the forefront, with wide-reaching implications for global powers and regional stability. As the conflict evolves, it poses complex challenges. The outcome of the Syrian conflict will shape the region’s future and impact India’s strategic positioning in a rapidly changing global landscape. Balancing these risks while maintaining neutrality will be key for India as it seeks to safeguard its national interests.