Parker solar probe sun

The Parker Solar Probe is the first spacecraft to enter the Sun's corona, gathering unprecedented data about the Sun and solar wind.

About this subject

Launched on August 12, 2018 by NASA, the Parker Solar Probe aims to revolutionize human understanding of the Sun. Named after astrophysicist Eugene Parker, who proposed the theory of solar wind, it is the fastest human-made object ever built, reaching speeds over 430,000 mph (700,000 km/h). Its trajectory involves increasingly close passes to the Sun, coming as near as 3.8 million miles (6.2 million km) from the solar surface.

The probe's primary goal is to study the solar corona, the Sun's outer atmosphere, which reaches temperatures of millions of degrees Celsius. To withstand such extreme heat, it carries a 4.5-inch (11.4 cm) thick carbon-composite heat shield, keeping instruments at roughly 85°F (30°C) while the shield faces up to 2,500°F (1,400°C). Data collected helps explain why the corona is hotter than the Sun's surface and how solar wind accelerates.

As of 2024, the Parker Solar Probe has completed over 18 close approaches to the Sun, providing direct measurements of particles, magnetic fields, and plasma waves. This information is vital for predicting solar storms that affect satellites, communications, and power grids on Earth. The mission is expected to last until 2025, with a final approach bringing it within 3.8 million miles (6.1 million km) of the Sun.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the maximum speed of the Parker Solar Probe?

The probe reaches speeds over 430,000 mph (700,000 km/h), making it the fastest human-made object ever built.

How does the Parker Solar Probe protect its instruments from the Sun's extreme heat?

It uses a 4.5-inch (11.4 cm) thick carbon-composite heat shield that reflects most solar radiation, keeping instruments at around 85°F (30°C).

Why is this mission important for Earth?

The data helps predict solar storms that can damage satellites, disrupt communications, and cause power grid blackouts.