Approach and Purpose
The is poised for a record-setting flyby, coming within 3.86 million miles of the sun's surface on December 24, aiming to study the solar corona and the origins of solar wind.
This mission, launched in August 2018, utilizes planetary gravity assists, notably from , to gradually tighten its orbit around the sun, minimizing fuel consumption while accelerating towards the solar corona.
Technological Marvel and Scientific Goals
The probe, traveling at 430,000 mph, features an advanced heat shield designed to withstand temperatures over 2,500°F, showcasing remarkable engineering to study solar phenomena up close.
By measuring the solar wind's inner part and the transition zone from corona to solar wind, the probe aims to enhance our understanding of solar activity's impact on space weather and Earth.