CubeSat Radio Interferometry Experiment (CURIE)

11.07.2024

CubeSat Radio Interferometry Experiment (CURIE)

 Why in the news?   

NASA is set to launch a groundbreaking CubeSat Radio Interferometry Experiment (CURIE) mission to unravel the mysteries of solar radio waves.

About CubeSat Radio Interferometry Experiment (CURIE):

• It is sponsored by NASA’s Heliophysics Flight Opportunities for Research and Technology (H-FORT) Program.
• It aims to investigate the enigmatic origins of radio waves emanating from the Sun, a phenomenon first observed decades ago.
• The mission employs an innovative technique called low-frequency radio interferometry, marking its first use in space.

○CURIE consists of two miniature spacecraft, collectively no larger than a shoebox, which will orbit Earth approximately two miles apart.

○This separation enables the instruments to detect minute differences in radio wave arrival times, pinpointing their exact solar origin.

Working of CubeSat Radio Interferometry Experiment (CURIE)

• This spacecraft will measure radio waves in the 0.1 to 19 megahertz range, frequencies blocked by Earth's upper atmosphere, necessitating space-based observations.
• CURIE will orbit 360 miles above Earth's surface to obtain an unobstructed view of the Sun's radio emissions.
• Once in orbit, the two CURIE spacecraft will separate, deploy their eight-foot antennas, and begin collecting data.
• This mission not only promises to advance our understanding of solar phenomena but also paves the way for future space-based radio astronomy endeavors

                                                                    Source: The Hindu

Ques :- Consider the following statements with reference to the Cube Sat Radio Interferometry Experiment:

Statement-I

 It aims to investigate the enigmatic origins of radio waves emanating from the Sun.

Statement-II

It is an initiative of the European Space Agency.

Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?

A. Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct, and Statement-II is the correct explanation for Statement-I.

B. Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct, and Statement-II is not the correct explanation for Statement-I.

C. Statement-I is correct, but Statement-II is incorrect.

D. Statement-I is incorrect, but Statement-II is correct.

Answer C