NASA touched the sun for the first time with its probe

Since its launch in 2018the probe Parker Solar Probe From NASA pushes the limits of. Therefore, spatial exploration by approaching the sun like never before. Consequently, Baptized in tribute to Eugène Parker (the one who theorized the solar wind in 1958). In addition, this mission opens up a whole new look at solar phenomena, with direct benefits for land.

A proximity record with the sun – Nasa touched sun first time

In December 2024Parker Solar Probe has exceeded a step by just approaching 6.1 million kilometers solar surface – about 5 % of the distance between our planet and our star. Consequently, This technical feat allowed him to enter the solar crown (the outer layer where temperatures exceed one million degrees). Nevertheless, The spectacular images that she recorded and made public four days ago by the channel NASA Goddard evidenced by this.

The solar crown intrigues not only by its nasa touched sun first time extreme heat. but also because it is much warmer than the surface of the sun. One of the major objectives of the Parker Solar Probe mission is to unravel the mystery of this overheated envelope.

A design. protection like no other – Nasa touched sun first time

To endure the extreme conditions on the edge of the sun, Parker Solar Probe is equipped with an innovative thermal shield in ultra-reflective composite carbon. In addition to that. the probe goes to a stunning speed of more than 692 000 km/heither 25 times higher to that of the International Space Station (ISS).

Thanks to this ingenious design. the probe can study the solar wind closely, the magnetic fields and the energetic particles emitted by the sun.

Observations that

With the Wispr instrument (Wide-field Imager for Solar Probe). Parker captured the closest images ever recorded in the sun. These shots reveal phenomena such as material jets, plasma waves and nasa touched sun first time magnetic twists. For the first time, they also highlight the “switchbacks” – these sudden reversals of the solar magnetic field.

The information collected by the probe makes it possible to better predict solar behavior. to warn teams that protect our land infrastructure (for example, satellite operators and electrical network managers). As explained Nicky FoxAdministrator associated with the Directorate of Scientific Missions at the NASA headquarters: “The solar probe Parker. transported us to the dynamic atmosphere of our nearest star. »»

Super promising future prospects

The Parker Solar Probe mission does not stop there. From here 2026it must still perform six additional overflights, one of which will pass unless 7 million kilometers sun. By getting closer to our solar neighbors. the probe will continue to bring new lights to the mysteries of our star.

This adventure opens up beautiful perspectives. It will enrich our scientific understanding and strengthen our capacity to nasa touched sun first time protect our installations on earth from solar disturbances.