NASA's Parker Solar Probe Flashcard

Front

What is the primary mission of NASA's Parker Solar Probe?

Back

To study the Sun up close.

Front

What celestial body did the Parker Solar Probe use for gravitational assists?

Back

Venus.

Front

What unexpected finding did the Parker Solar Probe discover about the solar wind?

Back

Zig-zag-shaped structures called switchbacks.

Front

What is the name of the outer atmosphere of the Sun that the Parker Solar Probe studies?

Back

Corona.

Front

What year was the Parker Solar Probe launched?

Back

2018.

Front

What is solar wind?

Back

A stream of charged particles released from the upper atmosphere of the Sun.

Front

What is the significance of studying the Sun's corona?

Back

Understanding the corona helps scientists learn about solar activity and its effects on space weather.

Front

What technology does the Parker Solar Probe use to withstand extreme temperatures?

Back

A cutting-edge heat shield made of carbon-composite materials.

Front

How close can the Parker Solar Probe get to the Sun?

Back

Within approximately 4 million miles (about 6.4 million kilometers) of the Sun's surface.

Front

What is the purpose of gravitational assists in space missions?

Back

To increase the spacecraft's speed and alter its trajectory using the gravity of planets.