Solar Orbiter Data Cracks Mystery of Sun’s Accelerated Particles, Protecting Satellites and Astronauts
PARIS – Scientists have pinpointed the source and acceleration mechanisms behind the sun’s most energetic particles, a breakthrough achieved through data collected by the european Space Agency’s (ESA) Solar Orbiter mission. These high-energy particles pose a significant threat to satellites, disrupt communications, and endanger astronauts, and understanding their origins is crucial for space weather forecasting and protection.
The research, detailed in recent findings, reveals key insights into how the sun accelerates electrons to near-light speed. This knowledge allows scientists to differentiate between types of electrons emitted by the sun, improving the ability to predict space weather events and safeguard critical space-based infrastructure. “This knowledge helps us distinguish the types of electrons emitted by the sun,so as to improve the ability to predict space for space and protect satellites and space missions,” explained Daniel Müller,Project Scientist for Solar Orbiter at ESA.
The sun constantly emits a stream of charged particles known as the solar wind. Occasionally, powerful eruptions like solar flares and coronal mass ejections (CMEs) unleash bursts of these particles, including highly energetic ones. These energetic particles can penetrate spacecraft shielding, damage sensitive electronics, and even pose a radiation hazard to astronauts. Accurately predicting these events is a major challenge for space weather forecasters.
ESA is preparing for future missions to further enhance our understanding of the sun’s behavior. Vigil, slated for launch in 2031, will observe the sun’s previously unmonitored side to detect solar storms before they impact Earth. Smile, launching in 2026, will investigate how Earth’s magnetic field protects the planet from the solar wind and particle storms.
This latest research represents a significant step forward in understanding the sun as a worldwide particle accelerator. The growing data catalog from Solar Orbiter is providing scientists with a clearer picture of where these energetic particles originate, how they travel, and their impact on Earth and beyond – knowledge that is increasingly vital as modern life becomes ever more reliant on space technology.
