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NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration of the United States) and NASA are creating satellites with solar sails for early detection of solar storms. The new technology will allow to obtain data on solar activity faster than current devices and better protect power grids and satellite systems from possible failures, informs Space.
The Solar Cruiser project involves the creation of a satellite with a sail area of 1653 square meters. The first tests are scheduled to be completed in 2026, and full operation of the technology is planned for 2029.
The principle of operation of a solar sail is based on the pressure of photons - particles of light emitted by the Sun. This allows the spacecraft to move without using fuel, making it effective for long-term observation of the Sun.
Existing satellites monitor solar activity and analyze the streams of charged particles that make up the solar wind. When these particles reach Earth, they can interact with its magnetic field and cause geomagnetic storms that disrupt power grids, GPS systems, and communications.
Current satellites are too far from the Sun to provide rapid warning data. New satellites will be able to be closer to the Sun and transmit information about potential threats more quickly.
The successful implementation of the Solar Cruiser project will allow us to more accurately predict the consequences of solar activity and minimize its impact on Earth's technological systems.
NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration of the United States) and NASA are creating satellites with solar sails for early detection of solar storms. The new technology will allow to obtain data on solar activity faster than current devices and better protect power grids and satellite systems from possible failures, informs Space.
The Solar Cruiser project involves the creation of a satellite with a sail area of 1653 square meters. The first tests are scheduled to be completed in 2026, and full operation of the technology is planned for 2029.
The principle of operation of a solar sail is based on the pressure of photons - particles of light emitted by the Sun. This allows the spacecraft to move without using fuel, making it effective for long-term observation of the Sun.
Existing satellites monitor solar activity and analyze the streams of charged particles that make up the solar wind. When these particles reach Earth, they can interact with its magnetic field and cause geomagnetic storms that disrupt power grids, GPS systems, and communications.
Current satellites are too far from the Sun to provide rapid warning data. New satellites will be able to be closer to the Sun and transmit information about potential threats more quickly.
The successful implementation of the Solar Cruiser project will allow us to more accurately predict the consequences of solar activity and minimize its impact on Earth's technological systems.
