The European Space Agency (ESA) has released extraordinary images of the Sun’s outer atmosphere, the solar corona, thanks to its Proba-3 mission. This mission accomplished an impressive feat by having two satellites fly in perfect formation to create an artificial total solar eclipse.
Using two synchronized satellites – the Coronagraph and the Occulter – that are just 150 meters apart, the spacecraft can generate a virtual total solar eclipse in space. This configuration allows the coronagraph to capture detailed images of the Sun’s faint corona without interference from its bright central disk.
Unlike natural eclipses, which last only a few minutes, Proba-3’s artificial eclipses can last for up to six hours. This provides scientists with an unprecedented view of the Sun’s outer atmosphere, enabling them to study solar phenomena such as solar wind and coronal mass ejections (CMEs) more effectively.
Proba-3 has unveiled intricate loops of plasma extending from the Sun’s surface, revealing insights into its dynamic behavior. These images capture the solar corona with greater detail and clarity than traditional coronagraphs, marking a significant advancement in solar research.
The mission’s success lies in the precision required to maintain formation flying, achieved through advanced technology including optical cameras, laser systems, and inter-satellite radio links. The satellites operate autonomously, without ground intervention, providing scientists with stable data throughout the mission.
Proba-3’s images also provide broader implications for understanding space weather. By studying the solar corona in greater detail, scientists can gain insights into coronal mass ejections (CMEs) and solar wind, which could improve our ability to predict space weather events and their effects on Earth.
The ESA’s mission demonstrates significant advancements in autonomous space technology, paving the way for future missions that can capture detailed images of celestial objects without human intervention.
Source: https://dailygalaxy.com/2025/06/proba-3-mission-unseen-sun-hidden-corona