In a remarkable feat of engineering and scientific ambition, NASA’s Parker Solar Probe has flown closer to the Sun than any spacecraft before. In December 2024, the probe skimmed just 3.8 million miles from the solar surface, venturing deep into the corona, the Sun’s superheated outer atmosphere. Using its Wide‑Field Imager for Solar Probe (WISPR), Parker captured unprecedented high‑resolution images revealing dynamic structures within the solar wind: the steady stream of charged particles hurtling through space at over a million miles per hour. These extraordinary visuals have offered scientists their closest‑ever look at where space weather originates, helping to refine predictions vital to protecting astronauts, satellites, and power grids on Earth.<h2>Unveiling the secrets of solar wind and CMEs</h2>&nbsp;One of Parker’s key achievements has been to witness, up close, the heliospheric current sheet, the vast boundary where the Sun’s magnetic field reverses polarity from north to south. For the first time, scientists observed multiple coronal mass ejections (CMEs), immense eruptions of charged particles, colliding and merging, a process that can significantly intensify space weather impacts. Angelos Vourlidas, WISPR instrument scientist, described seeing CMEs 'piling up on top of one another', which could change their trajectory and increase the danger they pose to technology both in space and on the ground.&nbsp;The probe’s findings help explain how CMEs interact and how solar wind turbulence develops, providing insights into the magnetic forces shaping our space environment.&nbsp;<h2>Magnetic switchbacks and the slow solar wind mystery</h2> Since its launch in 2018, Parker Solar Probe has transformed scientists’ understanding of the solar wind first theorised by physicist Eugene Parker in 1958. Earlier passes revealed that the fast solar wind is partly driven by magnetic 'switchbacks', sudden zig‑zag bends in magnetic field lines emerging from coronal holes. These switchbacks, once considered rare, turned out to be far more common and clustered, playing a key role in accelerating the fast solar wind.&nbsp;

Parker Solar Probe captures stunning images

&nbsp;&nbsp;Yet the slow solar wind, which moves at roughly half the speed and is denser and more variable, remains less understood. Parker’s close observations suggest that this slower stream may originate from helmet streamers, large magnetic loops near the solar equator, but further study is needed to confirm this. Understanding both streams is critical, as interactions between them can create turbulent conditions near Earth, sometimes rivaling the effects of direct CME impacts.&nbsp;<h2>Looking ahead: towards deeper understanding</h2> The probe’s next close approach, set for September 2025, promises even richer data as it dives deeper into the corona. These groundbreaking discoveries are not merely academic: they have profound implications for predicting space weather, safeguarding astronauts and spacecraft, and ensuring the stability of power and communications systems on Earth, a reminder of how our daily lives remain deeply connected to our star.&nbsp;

These extraordinary visuals have offered scientists their closest‑ever look at where space weather originates, helping to refine predictions vital to protecting astronauts, satellites, and power grids on Earth.

In a remarkable feat of engineering and scientific ambition, NASA’s Parker Solar Probe has flown closer to the Sun than any spacecraft before. In December 2024, the probe skimmed just 3.8 million miles from the solar surface, venturing deep into the corona, the Sun’s superheated outer atmosphere. Using its Wide‑Field Imager for Solar Probe (WISPR), Parker captured unprecedented high‑resolution images revealing dynamic structures within the solar wind: the steady stream of charged particles hurtling through space at over a million miles per hour. These extraordinary visuals have offered scientists their closest‑ever look at where space weather originates, helping to refine predictions vital to protecting astronauts, satellites, and power grids on Earth. Unveiling the secrets of solar wind and CMEs One of Parker’s key achievements has been to witness, up close, the heliospheric current sheet, the vast boundary where the Sun’s magnetic field reverses polarity from north to south. For the first time, scientists observed multiple coronal mass ejections (CMEs), immense eruptions of charged particles, colliding and merging, a process that can significantly intensify space weather impacts. Angelos Vourlidas, WISPR instrument scientist, described seeing CMEs 'piling up on top of one another', which could change their trajectory and increase the danger they pose to technology both in space and on the ground. The probe’s findings help explain how CMEs interact and how solar wind turbulence develops, providing insights into the magnetic forces shaping our space environment. Magnetic switchbacks and the slow solar wind mystery Since its launch in 2018, Parker Solar Probe has transformed scientists’ understanding of the solar wind first theorised by physicist Eugene Parker in 1958. Earlier passes revealed that the fast solar wind is partly driven by magnetic 'switchbacks', sudden zig‑zag bends in magnetic field lines emerging from coronal holes. These switchbacks, once considered rare, turned out to be far more common and clustered, playing a key role in accelerating the fast solar wind.

These extraordinary visuals have offered scientists their closest‑ever look at where space weather originates, helping to refine predictions vital to protecting astronauts, satellites, and power grids on Earth.

Closer than ever: Parker Solar Probe captures stunning images deep within the Sun’s atmosphere

NASA’s Parker Solar Probe is set to complete its seventh and final Venus gravity assist manoeuvre that will send it back towards the Sun. The probe will pass within 375 km of Venus’ surface in doing so. At this time, the probe will fly around Venus, using the gravitational force exerted by the planet on the spacecraft to push it towards the sun.&nbsp;

After reaching its desired destination, the spacecraft will be 6.12 million km away from the solar surface on Dec 20, 2024. This will be the closest that any man-made object has ever got to the surface of the sun.

The probe will fly through plumes of plasma spewing out of the Sun at a record 692,000km/hr. This is the ultimate objective the Parker probe hopes to achieve.

The Parker Solar Probe has been to the sun in the past few years, gathering valuable data. In 2021, it peered into the solar environment following the release of solar flares. It flew through a coronal mass ejection and captured the extreme environment on video.&nbsp;

It did the same in September 2022 again, giving researchers an opportunity to understand how the Sun’s plasma interacts with the interplanetary dust around it.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/atomic-bomb-like-explosions-rock-surface-of-this-fast-spinning-stellar-corpse-773969">Blasts similar to detonating atomic bombs rattling fast-spinning stellar corpse</a>

However, the gravity assist will not only launch it towards a trip to the Sun but also let it peer into Venus once again. It will be a chance to learn about the ring of dust around the planet and the mysterious radio signals from its atmosphere.

<h2>Parker probe to look at Venus again</h2>

The Wide-Field Imager for Parker Solar Probe, or WISPR, has proved to be a crucial instrument in learning more about our twin planet. Normally, it looks outwards and at the fine details in the solar wind.

But on July 11, 2020, during Parker’s third Venus flyby, WISPR gazed into the planet’s thick cloud cover and sent back surprising images. It was able to cut through the clouds and look deep into the Venusian surface below.&nbsp;

The probe captured infrared emissions from the planet’s surface which literally glows because of the extreme heat. Venus sizzles at a temperature of approximately 465 degrees C.

"The WISPR cameras can see through the clouds to the surface of Venus, which glows in the near-infrared because it’s so hot," said Noam Izenberg, a space scientist at the Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory, in a NASA release.

Now with the last flyby, scientists are hoping to answer a few more questions about Venus.&nbsp;

“Because it flies over a number of similar and different landforms than the previous Venus flybys, the Nov. 6 flyby will give us more context to evaluate whether WISPR can help us distinguish physical or even chemical properties of Venus’ surface,” said Noam.

The Parker probe's closest approach to the sun will occur on Dec 24. But scientists won't know whether or not it was a success since it will be out of touch with mission control. The results will be revealed only on December 27 when it notifies mission control through a beacon.

NASA’s Parker Solar Probe is set to complete its seventh and final Venus gravity assist manoeuvre that will send it back towards the Sun. The probe will pass within 375 km of Venus’ surface in doing so.

NASA’s Parker Solar Probe is set to complete its seventh and final Venus gravity assist manoeuvre that will send it back towards the Sun. The probe will pass within 375 km of Venus’ surface in doing so. At this time, the probe will fly around Venus, using the gravitational force exerted by the planet on the spacecraft to push it towards the sun. After reaching its desired destination, the spacecraft will be 6.12 million km away from the solar surface on Dec 20, 2024. This will be the closest that any man-made object has ever got to the surface of the sun. The probe will fly through plumes of plasma spewing out of the Sun at a record 692,000km/hr. This is the ultimate objective the Parker probe hopes to achieve. The Parker Solar Probe has been to the sun in the past few years, gathering valuable data. In 2021, it peered into the solar environment following the release of solar flares. It flew through a coronal mass ejection and captured the extreme environment on video. It did the same in September 2022 again, giving researchers an opportunity to understand how the Sun’s plasma interacts with the interplanetary dust around it. Also Read: Blasts similar to detonating atomic bombs rattling fast-spinning stellar corpse However, the gravity assist will not only launch it towards a trip to the Sun but also let it peer into Venus once again. It will be a chance to learn about the ring of dust around the planet and the mysterious radio signals from its atmosphere. Parker probe to look at Venus again The Wide-Field Imager for Parker Solar Probe, or WISPR, has proved to be a crucial instrument in learning more about our twin planet. Normally, it looks outwards and at the fine details in the solar wind. But on July 11, 2020, during Parker’s third Venus flyby, WISPR gazed into the planet’s thick cloud cover and sent back surprising images. It was able to cut through the clouds and look deep into the Venusian surface below. The probe captured infrared emissions from the planet’s surface which literally glows because of the extreme heat. Venus sizzles at a temperature of approximately 465 degrees C. "The WISPR cameras can see through the clouds to the surface of Venus, which glows in the near-infrared because it’s so hot," said Noam Izenberg, a space scientist at the Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory, in a NASA release. Now with the last flyby, scientists are hoping to answer a few more questions about Venus. “Because it flies over a number of similar and different landforms than the previous Venus flybys, the Nov. 6 flyby will give us more context to evaluate whether WISPR can help us distinguish physical or even chemical properties of Venus’ surface,” said Noam. The Parker probe's closest approach to the sun will occur on Dec 24. But scientists won't know whether or not it was a success since it will be out of touch with mission control. The results will be revealed only on December 27 when it notifies mission control through a beacon.

History awaits solar probe as it is flung towards Sun by Venus one last time

NASA's Parker Solar Probe is set to race past the sun at a godly speed of 195 km/s, or 435,000 mph on December 24, 2024.

Till now, no human-made object has got so close to the surface of the Sun. The probe will be just 6.1 million km, or 3.8 million miles away from the star's boiling surface.

Speaking to BBC News, Parker project scientist Dr Nour Raouafi said, “We are basically almost landing on a star.”

"This will be a monumental achievement for all humanity. This is equivalent to the Moon landing of 1969," said the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory scientist, while speaking to BBC News.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/sun-releases-strong-x-class-solar-flare-most-powerful-since-2017-669820">Sun releases strongest X-class solar flare since 2017, radio blackout reported over Americas</a>

The probe will get its speed from the immense gravitational pull which it feels as it will move towards the Sun. It will be similar to flying from New York to London in just 30 seconds.

<h2 lang="en-US">Parker Solar Probe and its unearthly challenges</h2>

The Parker Solar Probe of the US Space Agency is one of the most audacious missions to be ever launched. The probe was launched in 2018 and its goal is to make repeated and closer passes of the Sun.

The kind of challenges the probe will face in this mission will be huge. At perihelion, which is the point in the orbit of the probe when it is closest to the star, the temperature on the spacecraft's front will probably reach 1,400ºC.

The strategy of Parker is to get in and out quickly while taking measurements of the solar environment using a suite of instruments which are deployed from behind a thick heat shield.

Watch:&nbsp;New evidence suggests size of the Sun could be smaller, says report

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The researchers have been hoping that they will get a breakthrough in their knowledge of a few key solar processes. Speaking about the mission, Dr Raouafi said, "This takes on a new dimension, especially now that we're thinking of sending women and men back to the Moon and even setting up a permanent presence on the lunar surface.”

Meanwhile, lead scientist on Parker Dr Nicky Fox, while speaking to BBC News said, "We don't know what we'll find, but we'll be looking for waves in the solar wind associated with the heating. I suspect we'll sense lots of different types of waves which would point to a mix of processes that people have been arguing over for years."

(With inputs from agencies)

NASA's Parker Solar Probe is set to race past the sun at a godly speed of 195 km/s, or 435,000 mph on December 24, 2024. Till now, no human-made object has got so close to the surface of the Sun.

NASA's Parker Solar Probe is set to race past the sun at a godly speed of 195 km/s, or 435,000 mph on December 24, 2024. Till now, no human-made object has got so close to the surface of the Sun. The probe will be just 6.1 million km, or 3.8 million miles away from the star's boiling surface. Speaking to BBC News, Parker project scientist Dr Nour Raouafi said, “We are basically almost landing on a star.” "This will be a monumental achievement for all humanity. This is equivalent to the Moon landing of 1969," said the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory scientist, while speaking to BBC News. Also read: Sun releases strongest X-class solar flare since 2017, radio blackout reported over Americas The probe will get its speed from the immense gravitational pull which it feels as it will move towards the Sun. It will be similar to flying from New York to London in just 30 seconds. Parker Solar Probe and its unearthly challenges The Parker Solar Probe of the US Space Agency is one of the most audacious missions to be ever launched. The probe was launched in 2018 and its goal is to make repeated and closer passes of the Sun. The kind of challenges the probe will face in this mission will be huge. At perihelion, which is the point in the orbit of the probe when it is closest to the star, the temperature on the spacecraft's front will probably reach 1,400ºC. The strategy of Parker is to get in and out quickly while taking measurements of the solar environment using a suite of instruments which are deployed from behind a thick heat shield. Watch: New evidence suggests size of the Sun could be smaller, says report The researchers have been hoping that they will get a breakthrough in their knowledge of a few key solar processes. Speaking about the mission, Dr Raouafi said, "This takes on a new dimension, especially now that we're thinking of sending women and men back to the Moon and even setting up a permanent presence on the lunar surface.” Meanwhile, lead scientist on Parker Dr Nicky Fox, while speaking to BBC News said, "We don't know what we'll find, but we'll be looking for waves in the solar wind associated with the heating. I suspect we'll sense lots of different types of waves which would point to a mix of processes that people have been arguing over for years." (With inputs from agencies)

NASA’s Parker Solar Probe plans to ‘touch the Sun’ in 2024

NASA's Parker Solar Probe has marked a historic milestone by becoming the first spacecraft to fly through a&nbsp;coronal mass ejection (CME) directly from the sun — a colossal eruption which expels billions of tonnes of plasma.&nbsp;

<h2>'Closest to the sun'</h2>

The audacious probe that was launched in August 2018 now holds the distinction of being the closest human-made craft to the sun.&nbsp;

As per a Forbes report, NASA's Parker Solar Probe spent two days at a mere 5.7 million miles (9.2 million kilometres) from the sun's scorching surface.

To&nbsp;better understand the accomplishment, let's put it into context. Mercury, the nearest planet to the sun, is located roughly 23 million miles (37 million kilometres) from the blazing star. Our planet, Earth, is at a more comfortable distance, a staggering 93 million miles (150 million kilometres).

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/high-five-for-isros-slingshot-technique-as-aditya-l1-leaves-earth-orbit-for-its-destination-637459">High-five for ISRO's 'slingshot technique' as Aditya-L1 leaves Earth's orbit for its destination</a>

On 22 September 2022, the Solar Parker probe passed right through the CME. This feat was revealed in a paper published in the Astrophysical Journal.

You can watch the fascinating video of its journey here:

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Another first! Our Parker Solar Probe flew through an eruption from the Sun, and saw it “vacuuming up” space dust left over from the formation of the solar system. It's giving <a href="https://twitter.com/NASASun?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NASASun</a> scientists a better look at space weather and its potential effects on Earth.… <a href="https://t.co/AcwLXOlI6m">pic.twitter.com/AcwLXOlI6m</a>
— NASA (@NASA) <a href="https://twitter.com/NASA/status/1703898589842313300?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 18, 2023</a></blockquote>
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As per Nour Raouafu, a Parker Solar Probe project scientist at the Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory in Laurel, Maryland, "This is the closest to the sun we’ve ever observed a CME."

"We've never seen an event of this magnitude at this distance," he added.

<h2>What exactly is a CME?</h2>

Coronal mass ejections, or CMEs, are huge expulsions of plasma and magnetic fields from the sun. These are often formed in the wake of solar flares.&nbsp;

Both phenomena, as per Forbes, trace their origins to "the twisting and realignment" of the sun's magnetic field.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/experiments-on-astronaut-mice-prove-humanity-has-a-chance-to-land-on-mars-637493">Experiments on astronaut mice prove humanity has a chance to land on Mars</a>

When directed toward Earth, a CME can induce geomagnetic storms capable of reshaping our planet's magnetic field, and can create mesmerising auroras.

However, severe CMEs also have the potential to jeopardise satellites, disrupt communication systems, and unleash widespread power blackouts.

<h2>What did the Parker probe observe during its perilous journey?</h2>

During this momentous journey, the Parker probe detected particles hurtling at speeds of up to 840 miles (1,350 kilometres) per second, akin to the ferocity of the most potent solar storm ever recorded—the Carrington Event in 1859.&nbsp;

Fortuitously, the CME that the Parker Solar Probe travelled through was on the sun's far side and not directed toward Earth. If it was directed at our planet, it would've caused quite a few potential disruptions that could incur economic losses, estimated at over $41.5 billion per day in the United States alone.

(With inputs from agencies)

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NASA's Parker Solar Probe has marked a historic milestone by becoming the first spacecraft to fly through a coronal mass ejection (CME) directly from the sun — a colossal eruption which expels billions of tonnes of plasma.

NASA's Parker Solar Probe has marked a historic milestone by becoming the first spacecraft to fly through a coronal mass ejection (CME) directly from the sun — a colossal eruption which expels billions of tonnes of plasma. 'Closest to the sun' The audacious probe that was launched in August 2018 now holds the distinction of being the closest human-made craft to the sun. As per a Forbes report, NASA's Parker Solar Probe spent two days at a mere 5.7 million miles (9.2 million kilometres) from the sun's scorching surface. To better understand the accomplishment, let's put it into context. Mercury, the nearest planet to the sun, is located roughly 23 million miles (37 million kilometres) from the blazing star. Our planet, Earth, is at a more comfortable distance, a staggering 93 million miles (150 million kilometres). Also read | High-five for ISRO's 'slingshot technique' as Aditya-L1 leaves Earth's orbit for its destination On 22 September 2022, the Solar Parker probe passed right through the CME. This feat was revealed in a paper published in the Astrophysical Journal. You can watch the fascinating video of its journey here: Another first! Our Parker Solar Probe flew through an eruption from the Sun, and saw it “vacuuming up” space dust left over from the formation of the solar system. It's giving @NASASun scientists a better look at space weather and its potential effects on Earth.… pic.twitter.com/AcwLXOlI6m — NASA (@NASA) September 18, 2023 × As per Nour Raouafu, a Parker Solar Probe project scientist at the Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory in Laurel, Maryland, "This is the closest to the sun we’ve ever observed a CME." "We've never seen an event of this magnitude at this distance," he added. What exactly is a CME? Coronal mass ejections, or CMEs, are huge expulsions of plasma and magnetic fields from the sun. These are often formed in the wake of solar flares. Both phenomena, as per Forbes, trace their origins to "the twisting and realignment" of the sun's magnetic field. Also read | Experiments on astronaut mice prove humanity has a chance to land on Mars When directed toward Earth, a CME can induce geomagnetic storms capable of reshaping our planet's magnetic field, and can create mesmerising auroras. However, severe CMEs also have the potential to jeopardise satellites, disrupt communication systems, and unleash widespread power blackouts. What did the Parker probe observe during its perilous journey? During this momentous journey, the Parker probe detected particles hurtling at speeds of up to 840 miles (1,350 kilometres) per second, akin to the ferocity of the most potent solar storm ever recorded—the Carrington Event in 1859. Fortuitously, the CME that the Parker Solar Probe travelled through was on the sun's far side and not directed toward Earth. If it was directed at our planet, it would've caused quite a few potential disruptions that could incur economic losses, estimated at over $41.5 billion per day in the United States alone. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

NASA's Parker Solar Probe gets 'closest' to Sun, spends two days in solar storm. Watch

Internet rules the world. It is as essential as bread butter to human beings today. People cannot think about even a couple of hours without the internet. Imagine days and years without it. Scientists have warned about the potential impact of an upcoming solar storm. It is commonly referred to as an "internet apocalypse" & could strike Earth within the next decade.

How NASA plans to use Parker Solar Probe to avert the 'internet apocalypse'

A video and some pictures of the surface of Venus have been released by NASA. These were taken last year by the Parker Solar Probe on a flyby. &nbsp;

The first images of this kind may help in learning more about the most earth-like planet in the solar system, the scientists said. &nbsp;

In 2020 and 2021, the Parker Solar Probe (PSP) of the US space agency took the images on two flybys of Venus. But&nbsp;its&nbsp;full analysis&nbsp;was published in the journal Geophysical Research Letters on Wednesday. It was also announced on NASA’s website. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/just-rocks-or-dinosaur-eggs-archaeologists-discover-mystery-objects-in-this-indian-state-452072" hreflang="en">Just rocks or dinosaur eggs? Archaeologists discover mystery objects in this Indian state</a>

Brian Wood, physicist, Naval Research Laboratory in Washington, DC, who was also the lead author of the study, said, “Venus is the third brightest thing in the sky, but until recently we have not had much information on what the surface looked like because our view of it is blocked by a thick atmosphere. Now, we finally are seeing the surface in visible wavelengths for the first time from space.” &nbsp;

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Parker Solar Probe has taken its first visible light images of the surface of Venus from space! 📸 
 
The planet is smothered in thick clouds, but during recent flybys of the planet Parker’s cameras peered through to see the surface: <a href="https://t.co/FNWNLwVSNI">https://t.co/FNWNLwVSNI</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VisionsOfVenus?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VisionsOfVenus</a> <a href="https://t.co/itp1tcB4YN">pic.twitter.com/itp1tcB4YN</a>
— NASA Sun &amp; Space (@NASASun) <a href="https://twitter.com/NASASun/status/1491442092526215170?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 9, 2022</a></blockquote>
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According to NASA, the probe revealed “a faint glow from the surface that shows distinctive features like continental regions, plains, and plateaus,” while a “luminescent halo of oxygen in the atmosphere can also be seen surrounding the planet.” &nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/impact-on-spaceflight-missions-spacex-starlink-satellite-under-nasa-lens-451973" hreflang="en">'Impact on spaceflight missions': SpaceX Starlink satellite under NASA lens</a>

The probe used a spectrum, which ranged from 470-800 nanometers, approaching infrared, to catch the glow caused by the excessive heat on the surface of the planet. &nbsp;&nbsp;

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Join us live!<a href="https://t.co/ZETtBG2kor">https://t.co/ZETtBG2kor</a> 
 
Parker Solar Probe’s just-released images of Venus — the first visible light images of the planet’s surface from space: <a href="https://t.co/gDLOXOYXxL">pic.twitter.com/gDLOXOYXxL</a>
— NASA Goddard (@NASAGoddard) <a href="https://twitter.com/NASAGoddard/status/1491807424801501186?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 10, 2022</a></blockquote>
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“The surface of Venus, even on the nightside, is about 860 degrees,” Wood said, using the Fahrenheit scale. “It's so hot that the rocky surface of Venus is visibly glowing, like a piece of iron pulled from a forge.” &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

A video and some pictures of the surface of Venus have been released by NASA. These were taken last year by the Parker Solar Probe on a flyby. The first images of this kind may help in learning more about the most earth-like planet in the solar system, the scientists said.

A video and some pictures of the surface of Venus have been released by NASA. These were taken last year by the Parker Solar Probe on a flyby. The first images of this kind may help in learning more about the most earth-like planet in the solar system, the scientists said. In 2020 and 2021, the Parker Solar Probe (PSP) of the US space agency took the images on two flybys of Venus. But its full analysis was published in the journal Geophysical Research Letters on Wednesday. It was also announced on NASA’s website. Also Read: Just rocks or dinosaur eggs? Archaeologists discover mystery objects in this Indian state Brian Wood, physicist, Naval Research Laboratory in Washington, DC, who was also the lead author of the study, said, “Venus is the third brightest thing in the sky, but until recently we have not had much information on what the surface looked like because our view of it is blocked by a thick atmosphere. Now, we finally are seeing the surface in visible wavelengths for the first time from space.” Parker Solar Probe has taken its first visible light images of the surface of Venus from space! 📸 The planet is smothered in thick clouds, but during recent flybys of the planet Parker’s cameras peered through to see the surface: https://t.co/FNWNLwVSNI#VisionsOfVenus pic.twitter.com/itp1tcB4YN — NASA Sun & Space (@NASASun) February 9, 2022 × According to NASA, the probe revealed “a faint glow from the surface that shows distinctive features like continental regions, plains, and plateaus,” while a “luminescent halo of oxygen in the atmosphere can also be seen surrounding the planet.” Also Read | 'Impact on spaceflight missions': SpaceX Starlink satellite under NASA lens The probe used a spectrum, which ranged from 470-800 nanometers, approaching infrared, to catch the glow caused by the excessive heat on the surface of the planet. Join us live!https://t.co/ZETtBG2kor Parker Solar Probe’s just-released images of Venus — the first visible light images of the planet’s surface from space: pic.twitter.com/gDLOXOYXxL — NASA Goddard (@NASAGoddard) February 10, 2022 × “The surface of Venus, even on the nightside, is about 860 degrees,” Wood said, using the Fahrenheit scale. “It's so hot that the rocky surface of Venus is visibly glowing, like a piece of iron pulled from a forge.” (With inputs from agencies)

NASA releases pictures of Venus’s surface taken by Parker Solar Probe in new light

A NASA spacecraft has officially "touched" the sun, falling through the corona, an unknown region of the solar atmosphere.

Scientists made the announcement at a meeting of the American Geophysical Union on Tuesday.

During the Parker Solar Probe's seventh close encounter to the sun in April, the spacecraft sailed through the corona.

The data took a few months to arrive, and then several more months to confirm, according to the scientists.&nbsp;

When Parker first crossed the jagged, uneven boundary between the solar atmosphere and outgoing solar wind, it was 8 million miles (13 million kilometres) from the sun's centre.

According to scientists, the spacecraft dipped in and out of the corona at least three times, each time with a smooth transition.&nbsp;

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"The Parker Solar Probe "touching the Sun" is a monumental moment for solar science and a truly remarkable feat," said Thomas Zurbuchen, associate administrator for NASA Headquarters in Washington.

"Not only does this milestone provide us with deeper insights into our Sun's evolution and it's impacts on our solar system, but everything we learn about our own star also teaches us more about stars in the rest of the universe." 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/want-to-space-travel-nasa-awards-4156-million-for-new-space-hubs-where-people-can-visit-live-work-433693">Also read | Want to space travel? NASA awards $415.6 million for new space hubs where people can visit, live, work</a>

According to the statement issued by the NASA, Parker is finding new discoveries that other spacecraft couldn't observe because they were too far away, including from within the solar wind, which is the flow of particles from the Sun that can affect us on Earth.

Parker revealed in 2019 that magnetic zig-zag formations in the solar wind, known as switchbacks, are abundant near the Sun.

However, it remained a mystery as to how and where they formed.

Parker Solar Probe has now travelled close enough to identify one spot where they originate: the solar surface, after halving the distance to the Sun since then.

The first flyby into the corona – and the promise of many to come – will continue to deliver information on processes that are difficult to examine from afar.&nbsp;

Until its grand finale orbit in 2025, Parker will continue to get closer to the sun and dive deeper into the corona.

The American Physical Society also published the latest findings.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A NASA spacecraft has officially "touched" the sun, falling through the corona, an unknown region of the solar atmosphere. Scientists made the announcement at a meeting of the American Geophysical Union on Tuesday.

A NASA spacecraft has officially "touched" the sun, falling through the corona, an unknown region of the solar atmosphere. Scientists made the announcement at a meeting of the American Geophysical Union on Tuesday. During the Parker Solar Probe's seventh close encounter to the sun in April, the spacecraft sailed through the corona. The data took a few months to arrive, and then several more months to confirm, according to the scientists. When Parker first crossed the jagged, uneven boundary between the solar atmosphere and outgoing solar wind, it was 8 million miles (13 million kilometres) from the sun's centre. According to scientists, the spacecraft dipped in and out of the corona at least three times, each time with a smooth transition. × "The Parker Solar Probe "touching the Sun" is a monumental moment for solar science and a truly remarkable feat," said Thomas Zurbuchen, associate administrator for NASA Headquarters in Washington. "Not only does this milestone provide us with deeper insights into our Sun's evolution and it's impacts on our solar system, but everything we learn about our own star also teaches us more about stars in the rest of the universe." Also read | Want to space travel? NASA awards $415.6 million for new space hubs where people can visit, live, work According to the statement issued by the NASA, Parker is finding new discoveries that other spacecraft couldn't observe because they were too far away, including from within the solar wind, which is the flow of particles from the Sun that can affect us on Earth. Parker revealed in 2019 that magnetic zig-zag formations in the solar wind, known as switchbacks, are abundant near the Sun. However, it remained a mystery as to how and where they formed. Parker Solar Probe has now travelled close enough to identify one spot where they originate: the solar surface, after halving the distance to the Sun since then. The first flyby into the corona – and the promise of many to come – will continue to deliver information on processes that are difficult to examine from afar. Until its grand finale orbit in 2025, Parker will continue to get closer to the sun and dive deeper into the corona. The American Physical Society also published the latest findings. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch | NASA makes history as spacecraft ‘touches’ sun for first time ever

While the actual surface of the Sun will burn (evaporate actually) anything to a crisp with its thousands of degrees temperature, even a few million miles from the surface are way hotter than the hottest furnace. This had made approaching the Sun a giant problem because human spacecraft made of any known material was feared to promptly melt , making the mission &nbsp;useless. But NASA's Parker Solar Probe has opened a new frontier for science by entering Corona, the atmosphere of the Sun.

What is Corona?

Corona is the solar atmosphere. It is an envelope around the Sun in which the material given off by the Sun is more bound to the Sun. Outside the Corona, the solar material is sent in space in the form of Solar wind at high speeds. Scientists do not yet fully know the reason behind this disparity fully.

Why do we study solar atmosphere?

As much as it supports life on Earth, Sun in unforgiving to anything that is in its vicinity without proper protection. Solar material is constantly ejected from the Sun at extremely high speeds. This is called Solar Wind. It is capable of making million-dollar satellites a piece of junk. Earth's atmosphere and magnetic field shields all life on the surface but same isn't always true about satellites revolving around Earth.

We do not fully know why solar wind is sent out at very high speeds from Sun. It originates from Sun's atmosphere (the Corona). Understanding solar atmosphere may make us protect our spacecrafts and satellites better. 
When was Parker solar probe launched?

NASA launched Parker solar probe in August 2018. The probe went around the Sun several times, the orbit reducing each time. The end goal was to enter the corona. During its 8th revolution around the Sun in April 2021, Parker solar probe entered the Corona

What did Parker solar probe find inside solar atmosphere?

<img alt="Corona" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c43dffa1-7b43-4b93-a208-4f64e650f4e6" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/corona.PNG" />

(Solar particles inside corona (left) are more bound to the Sun. Outside Corona they are ejected as Solar Wind. Image: NASA)

The instruments of the probe found that as the craft entered Corona, there was marked difference in the extent to which solar material was projected out in space. Outside Corona, the material was more readily sent out. But inside it was more bound to the Sun. At this time, the probe was 8 million kms away from solar surface.

As the probe entered corona, it also found that magnetic field of the Sun grew much stronger.

What now?

Parker probe's achievements has been nothing short of a 'dream come true' in words of NASA scientists quoted by the agency in its reports. Mankind had dreamed of knowing more about the Sun for millennia at least. NASA publicly declared its ambition of sending a probe to the Sun in the 50s. Parker solar probe's achievement has been a result of decades of patient research and resolute, steady scientific progress towards the goal. Something that was unimaginable has been achieved.

Who knows? We may even develop technology that will allow us to venture even closer to our very own star.

While the actual surface of the Sun will burn (evaporate actually) anything to a crisp with its thousands of degrees temperature, even a few million miles from the surface are way hotter than the hottest furnace.

While the actual surface of the Sun will burn (evaporate actually) anything to a crisp with its thousands of degrees temperature, even a few million miles from the surface are way hotter than the hottest furnace. This had made approaching the Sun a giant problem because human spacecraft made of any known material was feared to promptly melt , making the mission useless. But NASA's Parker Solar Probe has opened a new frontier for science by entering Corona, the atmosphere of the Sun. What is Corona? Corona is the solar atmosphere. It is an envelope around the Sun in which the material given off by the Sun is more bound to the Sun. Outside the Corona, the solar material is sent in space in the form of Solar wind at high speeds. Scientists do not yet fully know the reason behind this disparity fully. Why do we study solar atmosphere? As much as it supports life on Earth, Sun in unforgiving to anything that is in its vicinity without proper protection. Solar material is constantly ejected from the Sun at extremely high speeds. This is called Solar Wind. It is capable of making million-dollar satellites a piece of junk. Earth's atmosphere and magnetic field shields all life on the surface but same isn't always true about satellites revolving around Earth. We do not fully know why solar wind is sent out at very high speeds from Sun. It originates from Sun's atmosphere (the Corona). Understanding solar atmosphere may make us protect our spacecrafts and satellites better. When was Parker solar probe launched? NASA launched Parker solar probe in August 2018. The probe went around the Sun several times, the orbit reducing each time. The end goal was to enter the corona. During its 8th revolution around the Sun in April 2021, Parker solar probe entered the Corona What did Parker solar probe find inside solar atmosphere? (Solar particles inside corona (left) are more bound to the Sun. Outside Corona they are ejected as Solar Wind. Image: NASA) The instruments of the probe found that as the craft entered Corona, there was marked difference in the extent to which solar material was projected out in space. Outside Corona, the material was more readily sent out. But inside it was more bound to the Sun. At this time, the probe was 8 million kms away from solar surface. As the probe entered corona, it also found that magnetic field of the Sun grew much stronger. What now? Parker probe's achievements has been nothing short of a 'dream come true' in words of NASA scientists quoted by the agency in its reports. Mankind had dreamed of knowing more about the Sun for millennia at least. NASA publicly declared its ambition of sending a probe to the Sun in the 50s. Parker solar probe's achievement has been a result of decades of patient research and resolute, steady scientific progress towards the goal. Something that was unimaginable has been achieved. Who knows? We may even develop technology that will allow us to venture even closer to our very own star.

The other Corona: Know about the Sun's atmosphere 'touched' by a man-made probe for the first time

Europe and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nasa-blasts-off-historic-probe-to-touch-sun-158625/amp">NASA</a>'s Solar Orbiter took off to space on Sunday night to an unprecedented mission to capture the first images of the Sun's poles.

The United Launch Alliance Atlas 5 rocket blasted off from Cape Canaveral in Florida.

<img alt="Solar orbiter launch" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="afc0f9aa-32e2-45ec-a653-1fb5acdd3401" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Solar-Orbiter-Lift-Off-1024x576.jpg" /> 
(Image courtesy: NASA)

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nasa-blasts-off-historic-probe-to-touch-sun-158625/amp">NASA launches probe to go deep into Sun's scorching atmosphere</a>

The $1.5 billion spacecraft will join NASA's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nasa-blasts-off-historic-probe-to-touch-sun-158625/amp">Parker Solar Probe</a> which was launched one&nbsp;and a half years ago.

Solar Orbiter won't go&nbsp;close enough to penetrate the Sun's crown-like outer atmosphere, like Parker.

<img alt="This illustration made available by NASA depicts the Solar Orbiter satellite in front of the sun" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8a85acae-3683-49c7-b122-f0f00ee60b83" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2847%29_3.jpg" />

(Image courtesy: NASA)

It will manoeuvre into a unique out-of-plane orbit that will take it over both poles which have&nbsp;never been photographed before.&nbsp;

According to Gunther Hasinger, the European Space Agency's science director,&nbsp;Hasinger: ''Together with powerful ground observatories, the sun-staring space duo will be like an orchestra in which although every instrument plays a different tune, but together they play the symphony of the sun."

Solar Orbiter was made in Europe, along with nine science instruments.&nbsp;The 10th instrument was provided by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nasa-blasts-off-historic-probe-to-touch-sun-158625/amp">NASA</a>.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/touch-the-sun-nasa-spacecraft-set-to-investigate-corona-158364">'Touch the Sun': NASA spacecraft set to investigate corona</a>

Nearly 1,000 scientists and engineers from across Europe gathered with their US&nbsp;colleagues as the rocket blasted off, illuminating the sky for miles as&nbsp;crowds jammed nearby roads and beaches.&nbsp;The rocket was visible for four full minutes after liftoff.

<img alt="Solar orbiter" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2dd07ea4-4ea0-4675-80ea-d8e47e45630f" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/img_0194.jpg" /> 
(Image courtesy: NASA)

Solar Orbiter is a 4,000-pound spacecraft with long and slender&nbsp;instruments&nbsp;and antennas and will go past Venus in December and again next year, and then past Earth, using the planets' gravity to alter its path.

Full science operations will begin in late 2021, with the first close solar encounter in 2022 and more every six months.&nbsp;At its closest approach, Solar Orbiter will come within 26 million miles of the Sun, well within the orbit of Mercury.&nbsp;It differs from the Parker Solar Probe, by which&nbsp;is already past&nbsp;11.6 million miles within the Sun but it's flying nowhere near the poles.

Whereas,&nbsp;Solar Orbiter will inspect the elusive poles of the Sun.&nbsp;The Sun's poles are pockmarked with dark, constantly shifting coronal holes. They're hubs for the Sun's magnetic field, flipping polarity every 11 years.

Solar Orbiter's head-on views should finally yield a full 3-D view of the Sun, 93 million miles from the Earth.

Europe and NASA's Solar Orbiter took off to space on Sunday night to an unprecedented mission to capture the first images of the Sun's poles. The United Launch Alliance Atlas 5 rocket blasted off from Cape Canaveral in Florida.

Europe and NASA's Solar Orbiter took off to space on Sunday night to an unprecedented mission to capture the first images of the Sun's poles. The United Launch Alliance Atlas 5 rocket blasted off from Cape Canaveral in Florida. (Image courtesy: NASA) Also read: NASA launches probe to go deep into Sun's scorching atmosphere The $1.5 billion spacecraft will join NASA's Parker Solar Probe which was launched one and a half years ago. Solar Orbiter won't go close enough to penetrate the Sun's crown-like outer atmosphere, like Parker. (Image courtesy: NASA) It will manoeuvre into a unique out-of-plane orbit that will take it over both poles which have never been photographed before. According to Gunther Hasinger, the European Space Agency's science director, Hasinger: ''Together with powerful ground observatories, the sun-staring space duo will be like an orchestra in which although every instrument plays a different tune, but together they play the symphony of the sun." Solar Orbiter was made in Europe, along with nine science instruments. The 10th instrument was provided by NASA. Also read: 'Touch the Sun': NASA spacecraft set to investigate corona Nearly 1,000 scientists and engineers from across Europe gathered with their US colleagues as the rocket blasted off, illuminating the sky for miles as crowds jammed nearby roads and beaches. The rocket was visible for four full minutes after liftoff. (Image courtesy: NASA) Solar Orbiter is a 4,000-pound spacecraft with long and slender instruments and antennas and will go past Venus in December and again next year, and then past Earth, using the planets' gravity to alter its path. Full science operations will begin in late 2021, with the first close solar encounter in 2022 and more every six months. At its closest approach, Solar Orbiter will come within 26 million miles of the Sun, well within the orbit of Mercury. It differs from the Parker Solar Probe, by which is already past 11.6 million miles within the Sun but it's flying nowhere near the poles. Whereas, Solar Orbiter will inspect the elusive poles of the Sun. The Sun's poles are pockmarked with dark, constantly shifting coronal holes. They're hubs for the Sun's magnetic field, flipping polarity every 11 years. Solar Orbiter's head-on views should finally yield a full 3-D view of the Sun, 93 million miles from the Earth.

Solar orbiter takes off to capture first look at Sun's poles

In pics: NASA's five successful satellite missions in 2018

NASA's Parker Solar Probe - Humanity's first mission to the Sun - is expected to launch&nbspon July 31 this year. The mission is in its final leg of preparations.

The spacecraft will undergo a final assembly procedure and will be attached to the third stage of the Delta IV Heavy launch vehicle.

Post-launch, it will orbit directly through the solar atmosphere, closer to the surface than any human-made object has ever gone.

The mission is expected to reveal the fundamentals of the solar wind which is characterised by the constant outpouring of material from the Sun that shapes planetary atmospheres and affects space weather near Earth.

Throughout its seven-year mission, Parker Solar Probe will explore Sun's outer atmosphere and make critical observations to answer decades-old questions about the physics of stars.

The spacecraft will undergo comprehensive testing in the months to come before its final launch. A thermal protection system (TPS), or heat shield, will be installed prior to its launch to enable the spacecraft to survive the extreme temperature near Sun's corona.

"There are many milestones to come for Parker Solar Probe and the amazing team of men and women who have worked so diligently to make this mission a reality," said Andy Driesman, Parker Solar Probe project manager from the Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory in the US.

"The installation of the TPS will be our final major step before encapsulation and integration onto the launch vehicle," said Driesman.

Parker Solar Probe will be launched from NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp

Parker Solar Probe will be launched from NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida

NASA's Parker Solar Probe - Humanity's first mission to the Sun - is expected to launch&nbspon July 31 this year. The mission is in its final leg of preparations. The spacecraft will undergo a final assembly procedure and will be attached to the third stage of the Delta IV Heavy launch vehicle. Post-launch, it will orbit directly through the solar atmosphere, closer to the surface than any human-made object has ever gone. The mission is expected to reveal the fundamentals of the solar wind which is characterised by the constant outpouring of material from the Sun that shapes planetary atmospheres and affects space weather near Earth. Throughout its seven-year mission, Parker Solar Probe will explore Sun's outer atmosphere and make critical observations to answer decades-old questions about the physics of stars. The spacecraft will undergo comprehensive testing in the months to come before its final launch. A thermal protection system (TPS), or heat shield, will be installed prior to its launch to enable the spacecraft to survive the extreme temperature near Sun's corona. "There are many milestones to come for Parker Solar Probe and the amazing team of men and women who have worked so diligently to make this mission a reality," said Andy Driesman, Parker Solar Probe project manager from the Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory in the US. "The installation of the TPS will be our final major step before encapsulation and integration onto the launch vehicle," said Driesman. Parker Solar Probe will be launched from NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. (With inputs from agencies)

NASA's first mission to Sun to launch in July