Nasa’s Parker Probe Sets Record for Closest Approach to Sun
On Christmas Eve, Nasa’s Parker Solar Probe made history by surviving the closest-ever fly-by of the Sun. The spacecraft ventured just 3.8 million miles from the solar surface, enduring extreme radiation and temperatures of up to 1,800°F (980°C).
After days of anxious waiting, Nasa received confirmation of the probe’s success at 05:00 GMT on December 28. This milestone marks a significant leap in our understanding of the Sun’s outer atmosphere, the corona, and the origins of the solar wind.
Why “Touch” the Sun?
The corona, the Sun’s outer atmosphere, presents a long-standing mystery. While the Sun’s surface burns at around 6,000°C, its corona reaches millions of degrees—a phenomenon scientists are eager to unravel.
According to Dr. Jenifer Millard of Fifth Star Labs, “The corona is really, really hot, and we have no idea why. How does the atmosphere get hotter as you move further from the Sun?”
The Parker Probe’s Record-Breaking Journey
- Speed: Moving at a staggering 430,000 mph, the probe became the fastest human-made object.
- Distance: At just 3.8 million miles, it came closer than ever to the Sun.
- Protection: An 11.5cm carbon-composite shield safeguarded the probe’s delicate electronics.
Dr. Nicola Fox, Nasa’s head of science, explained, “We’re 93 million miles away from the Sun. Imagine placing the Earth one meter from the Sun; Parker Solar Probe would be only four centimeters away.”
Unlocking Solar Mysteries
Parker Solar Probe’s mission is expected to:
- Understand the corona’s heat: Decipher why it burns millions of degrees hotter than the Sun’s surface.
- Trace solar wind origins: Map the charged particles that cause dazzling auroras and disrupt Earth’s electronics.
Dr. Fox added, “This mission is vital for understanding space weather, which directly impacts life on Earth, from communication systems to power grids.”
What’s Next?
As Parker Solar Probe continues its journey, scientists eagerly await the data it will transmit. This bold mission not only helps solve cosmic puzzles but also enhances our ability to prepare for solar storms that affect modern technology.
External Link: Discover more about Nasa’s missions on BBC News.
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