Two major NASA missions, PUNCH and SPHEREx, are set to launch on a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket this weekend. The missions will study the sun’s dynamics and map the rest of the universe.
The PUNCH mission aims to create 3D views of the sun’s outer atmosphere by tapping into polarized light patterns. This technology will help scientists understand space weather events and how they propagate through the inner heliosphere.
On the other hand, SPHEREx is a spectro-photometer that will peering out into the infrared universe to illuminate what happened during the chaotic first several moments of time. The mission aims to produce 102 maps in 102 wavelengths every six months, providing insights into cosmic inflation and the evolution of galaxies.
Both missions are expected to answer key questions in astronomy, including how the universe expanded after the Big Bang, the origin of water and ice in our universe, and the formation of galaxies. If successful, these space explorers will provide long-awaited answers to humanity’s curiosity about the universe.
Source: https://www.space.com/space-exploration/missions/2-nasa-missions-will-carpool-on-a-spacex-rocket-this-friday-to-help-map-the-cosmos