NASA is gearing up for an exciting mission to study the total solar eclipse set to cross the U.S. on April 8th. The space agency will be sending two WB-57 jet planes to chase the eclipse, allowing researchers to gather valuable data on the sun’s corona and ionosphere.
Flying at a whopping 50,000 feet and reaching speeds of 460 mph, the jets will be able to extend the time of totality by 25%. Equipped with spectrometers and cameras, the planes will measure the temperature, elements, and eruptions of the sun’s corona, providing insight into its structure and impact on Earth.
One of the key objectives of the mission is to uncover a dust ring close to the sun, believed to be hiding asteroids. By studying this area, researchers hope to gain a better understanding of the space environment around the sun.
In addition to studying the sun, the eclipse will also offer valuable data on how changes in solar radiation can affect technologies like radar and GPS. This information could help improve our ability to predict and mitigate the impact of solar events on Earth.
Overall, NASA’s upcoming mission promises to shed light on the mysteries of the sun and its effects on our planet. With the help of advanced technology and skilled researchers, we are poised to uncover new insights into the workings of our solar system. Stay tuned for updates on this groundbreaking research on Insider Wales Sport.