NASA's Parker Solar Probe completes record second flyby

NASA's Parker Solar Probe successfully completed its second close flyby of the Sun earlier this week. The spacecraft flew within about 6.1 million kilometers of the Sun's surface at a speed of 692,000 km/h, matching the record set during its previous flyby in December. The flyby took place on March 22, and the probe operated autonomously during the mission. Its scientific instruments collected valuable data from the solar corona, the outer layer of the Sun's atmosphere. On March 25, the probe sent a signal back to Earth confirming it was in good condition. Scientists hope the data gathered will improve their understanding of solar winds and help predict space weather. They aim to solve long-standing questions about why the corona is much hotter than the Sun’s surface. Janet Petro, acting NASA administrator, stated this groundbreaking research could rewrite solar science. The Parker Probe's special heat shield technology has been crucial for its success. This system protects the spacecraft from extreme temperatures while allowing its instruments to operate effectively. Recently, the Parker team received an award from the National Aeronautics Association for their innovation in deep space exploration. The Parker Solar Probe was launched in 2018, and its final close flyby is planned for June 19, 2025. This mission marks significant advancements in our capabilities to explore the Sun and understand its mysteries.