ESA has published the first images of an artificial solar eclipse taken by the Proba-3 satellites. For the image to be created, the satellites in orbit must align precisely, with one satellite positioned between the others and the Sun, casting a shadow. This creates an “artificial solar eclipse,” which is observed by the coronagraph mounted on the other satellite.
To ensure the safety and protection of the coronagraph optics when the satellite is not shaded and is exposed to direct sunlight, experts in VZLU AEROSPACE and its subsidiary Serenum have developed a special motorized door. When the satellite is not shaded and is exposed to strong sunlight, it protects the coronagraph, in particular the optics. Once the two satellites have reached the desired formation, the door will open automatically, allowing measurements and observations to be made. When the satellites deviate from the formation and the intensity of solar radiation increases, the door closes again to protect the coronagraph.
The door also has special elements that help to refine the relative positions of the satellites. The door will be exposed to extreme temperatures in space. It was necessary to ensure that it was resistant to both temperatures of -100 °C and high temperatures of up to +110 °C. We thoroughly tested the door’s resistance in our laboratories in Letňany, Prague.
The surface of the door is coated with a special white paint that reflects sunlight and thus helps prevent the device from overheating. The door itself is made of an aluminum alloy, which is ideal for use in space, while the most stressed parts are made of titanium for maximum strength and durability.
The Proba-3 mission satellites were launched into orbit from the Indian spaceport of Sriharikota in early December 2024. The mission’s goal is to fly two satellites in precise formation and explore the solar corona.
Credits: ESA/Proba-3/ASPIICS/WOW algorithm
