360 degree view of the Sun
Two identical spacecraft from the NASA STEREO mission (Solar Terrestrial Relations Observatory), first launched back in 2006, are now sending back images, that for the first time allow a 360 degree view of the Sun.
The craft are offset from one another, with one flying ahead of the Earth and the other behind, resulting in them being positioned on opposite sides of the Sun, and are now able to send back images, both back and front of the planet.
This should enable scientists to better predict space weather and the violent eruptions that can emit from the sun's surface - eruptions that can result in damage to satellites and disruption in communication and power systems on Earth.
Take a quick look at the short NASA video below to find out a little more.
The craft are offset from one another, with one flying ahead of the Earth and the other behind, resulting in them being positioned on opposite sides of the Sun, and are now able to send back images, both back and front of the planet.
This should enable scientists to better predict space weather and the violent eruptions that can emit from the sun's surface - eruptions that can result in damage to satellites and disruption in communication and power systems on Earth.
Take a quick look at the short NASA video below to find out a little more.
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