NASA’s Parker Solar Probe Sets Record for Closest Approach to the Sun

NASA’s Parker Solar Probe has made history by flying approximately 6.1 million kilometers from the Sun, marking the closest approach ever achieved by a human-made object, Khaama Press reported. This distance is nearly ten times closer than Mercury’s orbit. During its journey, the probe traversed the Sun’s outer atmosphere, enduring extreme heat and radiation.

Communication with the probe will be temporarily interrupted, with scientists expecting to receive signals by December 27 to confirm its successful navigation through these harsh conditions. The probe is designed to withstand drastic temperature shifts, highlighting the mission’s engineering challenges.

Launched on August 12, 2018, the Parker Solar Probe aims to study the Sun’s corona and the acceleration of solar wind particles. Arik Posner from NASA expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming data, while Nick Pinkine from Johns Hopkins noted the groundbreaking nature of the mission. This exploration not only enhances our understanding of solar physics but also aids in protecting Earth from solar activity.