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A NASA spacecraft is piercing the sun's scorching atmosphere right now
- Parker Solar Probe reached its nearest solar approach, marking another milestone in its 2018 launch mission.
- The probe matched a record speed of 430,000 mph during this flyby.
- Researchers aim to study solar wind, flares, and coronal mass ejections to understand space weather.
- The mission has previously touched the sun, moving into regions where temperatures reach about 2 million degrees Fahrenheit.
- NASA plans to review next steps for the spacecraft in 2026 and beyond.
- The Sun's activity and corona mapping are key targets of Parker's ongoing observations.
- Parker Solar Probe helps forecast space weather that can affect power grids and communications on Earth.
- The mission's data enhance understanding of how solar magnetic fields influence eruptions.
- Nour Rawafi notes the mission's role in forming a bigger picture of solar magnetism.
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