PROBA-3 satellites, artwork

This image may not be used to state or imply ESA endorsement of any company or product PROBA-3 satellites. Computer artwork of the European Space Agency's (ESA's) PROBA-3 (PRoject for OnBoard Autonomy-3) as it looks towards the Sun. Proba-3's pair of satellites will be in a highly elliptical orbit around Earth, performing formation flying manoeuvres as well as scientific studies of the solar corona as one satellite creates an ?artificial solar eclipse? for the other. The occulter satellite, which obscures the Sun, will have solar panels on its Sun-facing side. Proba-3 is part of the European Space Agency's series of PROBA low-cost satellites that are being used to test new spacecraft technologies, whilst also carrying scientific instruments. The Proba-3 mission is scheduled to launch in 2020.