Tag: Solar Probe
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We need a solar sail probe to detect space tornadoes
A spacecraft that sails on light could provide a new vantage point on solar eruptions that can disrupt modern electrical and navigation systems.
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Touching the Sun to protect the Earth
A Q&A with Justin Kasper on going where no probe has gone before.
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Part 7: The end of the mission
The clock on the Parker Solar Probe will start ticking when it runs out of fuel used to make the attitude adjustments necessary to keep the craft’s key components protected behind the heat shield.
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Part 6: The big send-off
The power and fuel capacity of the Delta IV, along with an eventual gravity assist from Venus, will get the solar probe velocity down to a point where it can orbit the sun.
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Part 5: Sunblock and instrumentation
The extreme conditions of the corona are one of the main reasons a solar probe mission like this hasn’t been undertaken before. But Parker features a series of innovations that will allow the probe to get close enough to do what needs to be done.
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Part 4: Using the gravity of Venus to reach the sun
While NASA never intended for the probe to return to Earth, Venus represents a point of no return.
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Part 3: Parker’s record-breaking ride
The probe will make multiple passes through the corona, utilizing seven gravity assists from Venus to bring its orbits closer and closer to the sun.
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Part 2: Testing: Simulating the sun on Earth
A key component of Justin Kasper’s sensory equipment, Parker’s Faraday cup, had to be shown capable of withstanding the heat and light of the journey to the sun. To test it, researchers had to create something new – a homemade sun simulator.
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Part 1: Why we need an early-warning system for solar ejections
When strong magnetic fields crop up along the surface of the Sun cause the atmosphere above to twist, the buildup of magnetic energy leads to a sudden release, called a solar flare. When that energy reaches Earth, it has the capacity to wreak havoc.
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Key Parker Solar Probe sensor bests sun simulator—last launch hurdle
With old IMAX projector bulbs, Michigan Engineers simulate the sun.
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Solar storm: U-M model’s predictions ‘a remarkable achievement’
A space weather tool Michigan Engineers developed was used to produce animations that show predictions of how the recent storm would distort Earth’s magnetic field.
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Solar storms: Regional forecasts now possible
Researchers at the University of Michigan and Rice University have developed a new tool to help forecast solar storms and their effects on the power grid and communication satellites.