NASA’s Parker Solar Probe has performed better than expected as it approaches its closest point to the sun this week. The spacecraft will pass 6.1 million kilometers from the sun at 6:53 a.m. Eastern Time on December 24, setting a new record for the closest human-made object to a star.
Launched in 2018, Parker Solar Probe uses gravity-assist flybys of Venus to reduce its distance from the sun and gather data about the solar wind and corona. The final Venus flyby occurred on November 6, preparing the spacecraft for this close approach.
The thermal protection system that shields the spacecraft from the sun’s heat has performed better than expected, with lower temperatures than predicted. Engineers have designed this feature to provide a margin of safety, which appears to be sufficient. Additionally, the material used in the shield is thought to be improving its performance as it gets hotter.
Other systems on the spacecraft are also performing well, including the solar panels, which are degrading less than expected. The mission’s lead scientist notes that Parker Solar Probe is providing scientists with key data on the sun and other stars, helping them understand our star in greater detail.
The mission includes two more close approaches to the sun in 2025 and plans for a “bridge year” of funding to continue the mission until 2027. The spacecraft’s design allows it to remain in orbit for an extended period with minimal fuel use.
Source: https://spacenews.com/parker-solar-probe-to-make-closest-approach-yet-to-the-sun