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Chasing the Total Solar Eclipse from NASA's WB-57F Jets
On August 21, 2017, millions of people across the United States witnessed a rare celestial event: a total solar eclipse. While many watched from the ground, a team of NASA scientists and pilots took to the skies in two WB-57F jets to chase the eclipse and capture unique data and images. In this article, we'll explore the science behind the mission, the technology used, and what was learned from this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
What is a Total Solar Eclipse?
Before we dive into the mission itself, let's first understand what a total solar eclipse is. A solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes between the sun and Earth, blocking all or part of the sun's light. A total solar eclipse is when the moon completely covers the sun, creating a brief period of darkness during daylight hours.
The Science Behind Chasing an Eclipse
So why did NASA send two jets to chase this eclipse? The answer lies in studying the sun's corona - its outer atmosphere - which is only visible during a total solar eclipse. By studying the corona, scientists can learn more about how it affects space weather and Earth's magnetic field.
The WB-57F jets were equipped with special cameras and instruments to capture data on the corona during totality - when the moon completely covered the sun. By flying at an altitude of 50,000 feet, above any potential cloud cover or atmospheric interference, they were able to capture clear images and data.
The Technology Used
The cameras used on board the WB-57F jets were not your typical cameras. They were specially designed to capture images of the sun's corona in extreme ultraviolet wavelengths - which are invisible to the human eye. These cameras were able to capture images with a resolution of 1 arcsecond - equivalent to being able to see a dime from 10 miles away.
In addition to the cameras, the jets were equipped with a spectrometer - an instrument that measures the intensity of light at different wavelengths. This allowed scientists to study the composition of the corona and better understand its properties.
What Was Learned
The data and images captured during the eclipse mission are still being analyzed, but early results are promising. Scientists were able to capture some of the highest-resolution images of the sun's corona ever taken, which will help improve our understanding of this mysterious region.
In addition to studying the corona, the mission also provided an opportunity to test new technology and techniques for studying solar eclipses. This will help prepare for future eclipses and other astronomical events.
Conclusion
Chasing a total solar eclipse from a jet may seem like a wild idea, but it provided valuable data and images that will help advance our understanding of the sun's corona. By using cutting-edge technology and techniques, NASA was able to capture some of the highest-resolution images ever taken of this mysterious region. As we continue to study the sun and its effects on Earth, missions like this will play an important role in advancing our knowledge.
FAQs
1. How often do total solar eclipses occur?
Total solar eclipses occur roughly every 18 months, but they are only visible from specific locations on Earth.
2. How fast do WB-57F jets fly?
The WB-57F jets used in this mission have a top speed of Mach 0.92 - just under the speed of sound.
3. What other missions has NASA used WB-57F jets for?
NASA has used WB-57F jets for a variety of missions, including studying hurricanes, monitoring wildfires, and testing new technology for space exploration.
This abstract is presented as an informational news item only and has not been reviewed by a subject matter professional. This abstract should not be considered medical advice. This abstract might have been generated by an artificial intelligence program. See TOS for details.