Saturday morning, several thousands of people gathered at the observatory set up by the Indian Space Research Agency (Isro) near the launch site to watch the takeoff.
It was also broadcast live on national television, where commentators called it a "fantastic" launch. Isro scientists said the launch was successful and its "performance was normal".
After an hour and four minutes of flying, Isro declared the mission "success".
Sreedhara Panicker Somanath, head of Isro, said: “Now he will continue his journey – it is a very long journey of 135 days. Let's wish him luck." Project manager Nigar Shaji said that once Aditya-L1 reaches its destination, it will not only benefit India but also the global scientific community.
Aditya-L1 will now circle the Earth several times before being launched towards L1.
From this vantage point, he will be able to permanently observe the Sun - even if it is hidden during an eclipse - and carry out scientific studies.
Isro did not say how much the mission would cost, but Indian media reported it cost 3.78 billion rupees ($46 million).
Isro said the orbiter is carrying seven scientific instruments that will observe and study the corona (outermost layer); the photosphere (the surface of the Sun or the part we see from Earth) and the chromosphere (a thin layer of plasma between the photosphere and the halo). The studies will help scientists understand solar activity, such as the solar wind and its rays, as well as their impact on Earth and near-space weather in real time. .
Mylswamy Annadurai, a former Isro scientist, said the Sun continuously influences Earth's climate through radiation, heat, particle flux and magnetic fields. At the same time, he said, it also impacts space weather.
"Space weather plays an important role in satellite performance. Winds or solar storms can affect satellite electronics and even destroy power grids. But there are gaps in our understanding of space weather," Annadurai told reporters.
India has more than 50 satellites in space and they provide many important services to the country including communication links, weather data and help forecast pest invasion, drought and impending disasters happen.
According to the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA), about 10,290 satellites are still in Earth's orbit, of which nearly 7,800 are currently in operation.
Mr. Annadurai said Aditya will help us better understand and even give a warning about the star on which our lives depend.
"Knowing the sun's activities in advance, such as the solar wind or the sun's rays, a few days in advance, will help us keep our satellites out of harm's way. This will help increase the lifespan of our satellites in space. »
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