NASA's Parker Solar Probe has achieved a significant milestone by making its closest approach to the sun, the space agency confirmed on Friday. The spacecraft recently passed within a record-breaking distance of 3.8 million miles (6 million kilometers) from the scorching star. NASA received confirmation on Thursday night that Parker successfully survived the daring journey.
Launched in 2018 with the mission to study the sun up close, Parker Solar Probe has ventured through the sun's crownlike outer atmosphere, known as the corona. Following this historic close encounter, the spacecraft is expected to continue orbiting the sun at this proximity at least until September.
Parker Solar Probe holds the distinction of being the fastest spacecraft ever built by humans, reaching speeds of 430,000 mph (690,000 kph) at its closest approach. Equipped with a robust heat shield capable of withstanding temperatures up to 2,500 degrees Fahrenheit (1,370 degrees Celsius), the spacecraft has demonstrated its resilience in the face of extreme conditions.
Scientists are eager to analyze the data collected by Parker Solar Probe, as it may provide valuable insights into the mysteries of the sun's outer atmosphere, which is significantly hotter than its surface. Additionally, researchers hope to gain a better understanding of the solar wind, the high-speed stream of charged particles emanating from the sun.
This groundbreaking mission represents a significant step forward in our quest to unravel the complexities of our nearest star, offering the potential for new discoveries and advancements in solar science.
