Satellites create artificial solar eclipses for corona study

European satellites have successfully created the first artificial solar eclipses, providing scientists with extended observation opportunities. This innovative feat allows for unprecedented study of the sun's corona. Two satellites, launched late last year, are flying in precise formation, with one blocking the sun while the other observes the corona. The Proba-3 mission, costing $210 million, has already produced ten successful eclipses, with the longest lasting five hours. The mission aims to generate nearly 200 eclipses over two years, offering over 1,000 hours of totality, a significant increase compared to natural eclipses. This will allow scientists to study the sun's corona in detail.