The Aditya L1 mission by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has reached a significant milestone as Chief S. Somanath confirmed the commencement of observations. Launched on September 2, 2023, the spacecraft has meticulously navigated its way to the Lagrange point 1, reaching its target orbit on January 6, 2024. While formal operational status is pending, preliminary observations have already begun, showcasing the health of the spacecraft's instruments, which have sent back X-ray images and particle counts.

Somanath highlighted the global significance of the Aditya L1 mission, stating, "This is for the whole world, not for India alone." The mission aims to deepen our understanding of solar phenomena, studying the Sun's corona, photosphere, and the impact of solar winds and radiation. ISRO's precision in placing the spacecraft in its halo orbit around the L1 point reflects the agency's expertise and the mission's sophisticated engineering.

Looking ahead, Somanath outlined ISRO's ambitious plans, with the Gaganyaan program taking top priority in 2024. The agency aims for a manned mission by 2025 and envisions an Indian astronaut landing on the Moon by 2040, reflecting India's commitment to advancing space exploration.