NASA's Parker Solar Probe Touches The Sun For The First Time

In August 2018, NASA launched the Parker Solar Probe to study the sun's corona. The probe aims to solve mysteries about the sun's atmosphere, such as its high temperature and the solar wind's origin. In 2021, Parker entered the corona, marking a significant milestone. It discovered that the boundary between the corona and solar wind is irregular, and identified switchbacks in the solar wind. These findings help us understand the sun's influence on the solar system and the potential for life beyond Earth.

What was the primary goal of the Parker Solar Probe mission?

Describe the significance of Parker Solar Probe crossing the solar corona.

How does the temperature of the solar corona compare to that of the photosphere?

What challenges did scientists face in understanding the solar wind?

Explain the role of the sun's magnetic field in the behavior of solar material.

What are switchbacks in the context of solar wind, and why are they important?

Why is studying the sun critical for understanding life beyond our solar system?