Probing Where the Sun Does Shine: A Holiday Special
Radiolab
Deep Dive
Why is the spacecraft's mission to the sun considered groundbreaking?
The spacecraft, launched in 2018, is the fastest human-made object, traveling at over 430,000 miles per hour. It will get closer to the sun than any previous mission, reaching within 2,500 degrees Fahrenheit, allowing us to study phenomena like the sun's extreme temperature variations and solar wind.
What technological innovation allows the spacecraft to withstand extreme heat?
The spacecraft uses a 4.5-inch-thick carbon foam heat shield coated with ceramic to reflect sunlight, keeping the backside at around 700 degrees Fahrenheit, with temperatures dropping to near room temperature just a meter behind it.
What is the significance of the poem etched on the spacecraft heading to Europa?
The poem, 'In Praise of Mystery,' written by U.S. Poet Laureate Ada Limón, is a message from Earth to Europa, emphasizing our shared wonders and the importance of water as a unifying element. It represents all of humanity and life on Earth.
How did Ada Limón overcome her initial struggles in writing the poem for Europa?
Limón shifted her focus from a scientific tone to a more communal voice, imagining the audience as both humans and other life forms. Observing a gecko on a palm frond in Hawaii inspired the line 'We too are made of wonders,' which became central to the poem.
What is the global contest Radiolab is running in partnership with the International Astronomical Union?
Radiolab is hosting a contest to name one of Earth's quasi-moons, with thousands of names submitted from nearly 100 countries. The public can vote on the finalists, and the winning name will be officially recognized by the IAU.
What challenges did NASA face in developing the spacecraft's heat shield?
Initially, NASA struggled with creating a heat shield light enough to be feasible. The solution was a sophisticated carbon foam, which, despite its lightweight nature, can withstand temperatures over 2,500 degrees Fahrenheit.
What is the spacecraft's trajectory to the sun, and how does it achieve such high speeds?
The spacecraft uses a slingshot maneuver around Venus, gaining speed with each pass. This allows it to reach speeds of over 430,000 miles per hour, making it the fastest human-made object in space.
How does the spacecraft's design ensure it can function despite extreme temperatures?
In addition to the carbon foam heat shield, the spacecraft uses a gallon of water to cool its solar panels and angles them to stay in the shadow of the craft, preventing overheating.
- Parker Solar Probe's record-breaking speed exceeding 430,000 miles per hour
- Innovative carbon foam heat shield capable of withstanding extreme temperatures
- Mission's goal to solve solar mysteries, including the coronal heating problem
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