Stellar Insights: Parker Solar Probe’s Mission to Understand Solar Activity

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Parker Solar Probe's Historic Close Approach to the Sun

NASA's Parker Solar Probe has achieved a remarkable milestone, completing its 24th close flyby of the Sun at a record distance of just 6.2 million kilometers from the solar surface. During this encounter, the probe reached speeds of 687,000 kilometers per hour, gathering invaluable data on solar wind and solar activity as the Sun approaches its solar maximum. The mission aims to deepen our understanding of the Sun's behavior and its impact on space weather, which can affect technology and human activities on Earth.

Deep Earth Pulses: A New Ocean in the Making

Scientists have detected rhythmic surges of molten rock rising from deep within the Earth beneath Africa, revealing a dynamic mantle plume that is gradually tearing the continent apart. This groundbreaking research, published in Nature Geoscience, indicates that the Afar region is experiencing the birth of a new ocean basin due to the interaction between tectonic plates and the pulsing mantle below. The study highlights the complex relationship between the Earth's interior and surface processes, offering new insights into volcanic activity and continental breakup.

Aeris Rocket Launch Window Opens

Mission managers at Gilmour Space are preparing for the opening of a new launch window for their Ares orbital rocket's first test flight, set to begin tomorrow. Following earlier technical issues, the team is closely monitoring weather conditions as they aim to launch the first all-Australian designed and built launch vehicle since the 1970s. With ambitious plans for future versions capable of carrying heavier payloads, this test flight marks a significant step in Australia's growing space industry.

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✍️ Episode References

Nature Geoscience

https://www.nature.com/naturegeoscience/ (https://www.nature.com/naturegeoscience/)

NASA Parker Solar Probe

https://www.nasa.gov/content/parker-solar-probe (https://www.nasa.gov/content/parker-solar-probe)

Gilmour Space

https://gilmourspace.com/ (https://gilmourspace.com/)

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