New Mission Will Take First Peek at Sun’s Poles

The video discusses the challenges of solar imaging, particularly the difficulty in mapping the sun's poles due to the ecliptic plane. The Solar Orbiter mission, a collaboration between ESA and NASA, aims to capture the first images of the sun's poles by using gravity assists from Earth and Venus. The mission will help understand the sun's magnetic field, which flips every 11 years, affecting solar activity and Earth. The Solar Orbiter is equipped with 10 instruments to observe solar eruptions and measure solar material. It will endure extreme temperatures and radiation, protected by a titanium shield. By the end of its seven-year mission, it will provide unprecedented insights into the sun's behavior.

What is the primary objective of the Solar Orbiter mission?

• To map the sun's equator

• To capture images of the sun's poles

• To study the moon's surface

• To explore the outer planets

How does the Solar Orbiter plan to escape the ecliptic plane?

• By using solar sails

• By slingshotting around Earth and Venus

• By utilizing the gravity of Mars

• By using a powerful rocket

Why is studying the sun's poles important for scientists?

• To measure the sun's temperature

• To calculate the sun's age

• To understand the sun's magnetic field flips

• To determine the sun's size

What is one of the challenges the Solar Orbiter faces during its mission?

• Finding a stable orbit

• Communicating with Earth

• Surviving high temperatures and radiation

• Avoiding asteroids

What protects the instruments on the Solar Orbiter from intense radiation?

• A carbon fiber shield

• A magnetic field

• A layer of water

• A large titanium shield