Science Friday

Parker Solar Probe Will Make Closest-Ever Approach To Sun

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Dec 24, 2024
Dr. Nour Rawafi, project scientist for NASA’s Parker Solar Probe mission, dives into the groundbreaking mission to study the sun. This December, the probe will approach within 3.8 million miles of the sun’s surface, revealing secrets of solar phenomena. Nour discusses the probe's heat shield technology, which protects it from extreme temperatures, and how its data will deepen our understanding of solar cycles and their impact on Earth. Listeners will be captivated by the innovative strategies behind this historic mission and the potential for exciting discoveries.
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ANECDOTE

Close Encounter

  • Parker Solar Probe's 22nd close approach will bring it within 4% of the Sun-Earth distance.
  • This allows it to fly through structures visible during the April 8th eclipse.
INSIGHT

Parker's Speed

  • Parker Solar Probe travels incredibly fast at 191 kilometers per second.
  • At this speed, a trip from Earth to the moon would take roughly 30 minutes.
INSIGHT

Heat Shield

  • Parker's heat shield, made of carbon foam, can withstand temperatures of 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • It keeps the spacecraft's instruments near room temperature.
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