Parker Space Probe Reaches Sun’s Fiery Edge on Christmas Eve

Unprecedented Proximity to the Sun

This Tuesday, December 24, the Parker space probe will reach a remarkable milestone, coming within six million kilometers of the Sun’s surface. This achievement will make it the human-made object closest to the star at the center of our Solar System.

Launched in August 2018 from Cape Canaveral, Florida, the 685-kilogram Parker probe was designed to “touch the Sun” by orbiting the Corona, the outer part of the Sun’s atmosphere. A thermal shield will protect the probe from temperatures reaching up to 1,400 degrees Celsius.

A Record-Breaking Approach

The Parker probe’s approach will be the first of several, with the device traveling at an incredible 692,000 kilometers per hour. This speed will make it the fastest human-made object in history.

According to NASA, the probe will be able to make unparalleled measurements of the Sun’s Corona, which have the potential to transform our understanding of the star. These measurements will be made possible by the probe’s four instruments, kept at room temperature by the carbon heat shield.

A Delicate Balance

Despite the high temperatures in the Corona, the density is very low, which helps the probe avoid melting. NASA engineers estimate that the probe will have completed 24 orbits of the Sun by the time of its closest approach.

However, due to the distance between the probe and Earth, communications will be delayed. NASA researchers warn that it will not be until next Friday, December 27, when they will receive communications from the probe and be able to evaluate the success of the mission.

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