Lagrange points, named after French mathematician Joseph-Louis Lagrange, are five points in space where the gravitational pull of two large celestial bodies (such as a planet and its moon) and the centrifugal force experienced by a smaller object balance each other out. These points are located in the orbital plane of the two larger bodies and are particularly interesting because objects placed there will remain in a stable position relative to those two bodies.
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| Courtesy : ESA |
How are Langrange Points Named and Placed ??
The five Lagrange points are labeled L1 through L5. (Refer image above to clarify)
L1 is located between the two large celestial bodies and is the point where the gravitational pull of those bodies exactly balances the centrifugal force experienced by a smaller object.
L2 is located on the opposite side of the two large bodies from L1.
L3 is directly opposite the smaller body in the system.
L4 and L5 are located at equilateral triangles with the two larger bodies and the smaller body at the vertices.
The properties of Lagrange points have important implications for space exploration and observation.
For example:
The James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), which was launched in 2021, is stationed at L2, about 1.5 million kilometers from Earth. By sitting at this point, the telescope is able to observe the universe with unparalleled clarity and precision. (SEE BELOW IMAGE)
JWST L-2 POINT PLACEMENT
Similarly, several space missions have been launched to explore the Lagrange points of the Earth-Moon system.(READ HERE : )
In conclusion, Lagrange points are fascinating and important phenomena in space exploration and observation. They provide stable positions for spacecraft and telescopes, and their properties have important implications for our understanding of the universe. As we continue to explore space, Lagrange points will undoubtedly play an important role in our scientific and technological endeavors.