During a solar eclipse, astronomers can study the Sun’s corona – its outer atmosphere – in ways they cannot at other times. The bright sun blocks most instruments’ light, making it invisible. A new probe called Proba-3 changes this by creating artificial eclipses.
Proba-3 works like a real solar eclipse. One spacecraft orbits close to the sun, blocking bright parts and casting a shadow on another with a camera. This technology is crucial for future missions, including satellites that dock with dead ones or powerful telescopes far from their main mirrors.
In 2024, two satellites were launched into an orbit just 372 miles from Earth, moving at speeds over 127,000 mph. They controlled themselves automatically and flew apart by up to a football field while maintaining precise alignment. This technology helps scientists take important photos of the sun’s corona, learning more about our star.
Proba-3 is also studying space weather by observing high-energy particles ejected from the sun. These storms can harm Earth-orbiting satellites but also cause the northern lights. The mission aims to better predict dangerous events in time to protect satellites and enhance our understanding of the sun’s impact on space.
Source: https://theconversation.com/2-spacecraft-flew-exactly-in-line-to-imitate-a-solar-eclipse-capture-a-stunning-image-and-test-new-tech-259362