NASA Covers “Ring of Fire” Solar Eclipse and Launches Rockets to Study Atmospheric Effects
October 14, 2022 – NASA provided extensive coverage of the “Ring of Fire” annular solar eclipse, broadcasting from Kerrville, Texas, and Albuquerque, New Mexico. This rare celestial event also presented an opportunity for NASA to launch sounding rockets to study the effects of the eclipse on the atmosphere.
The “Ring of Fire” solar eclipse, which occurs when the Moon is too far away from Earth to completely cover the Sun, allowed viewers to witness a stunning celestial phenomenon. NASA’s broadcast locations along the path of annularity in Kerrville, Texas, and Albuquerque, New Mexico, provided unique views of the eclipse.
In addition to its visual appeal, the eclipse offered scientific opportunities. NASA utilized sounding rockets equipped with scientific instruments to study the effects of the eclipse on the atmosphere. These rockets provided valuable data that will contribute to further understanding of atmospheric dynamics during solar eclipses.
Looking ahead, a total solar eclipse is slated to occur on April 8, 2024, moving from Texas to Maine. This upcoming event will cross the United States, providing another chance for both scientific research and breathtaking visual experiences.
Understanding the Human Body’s Response to Spaceflights
On the International Space Station (ISS), NASA astronaut Loral O’Hara is participating in the Crew Integration for Performance, Health, and Exercise Remedy (CIPHER) study. This study aims to enhance knowledge about how the human body reacts to long-duration missions in space.
Astronauts volunteering for the CIPHER study undergo comprehensive health monitoring before, during, and after their missions. The gathered data is crucial in preparing for safe human missions to the Moon, Mars, and beyond. By understanding how the human body responds to extended periods in space, NASA can better support astronauts’ well-being during future deep space missions.
Testing Engines for Artemis Missions
NASA’s Stennis Space Center commenced a new test series on October 17, involving an RS-25 engine. This planned 12-test series represents the final round of certification testing before the production of an updated set of engines.
The RS-25 engines will power NASA’s Space Launch System (SLS) rocket on future Artemis missions, which aim to return humans to the Moon and pave the way for exploration beyond. The rigorous testing ensures the engines’ reliability and performance, guaranteeing safe and successful missions.
James Webb Space Telescope Detects Quartz Crystals on Exoplanet
Using the James Webb Space Telescope, researchers have made a groundbreaking discovery. They have detected evidence of quartz nanocrystals in the high-altitude clouds of WASP-17 b, a hot Jupiter exoplanet located 1,300 light-years from Earth.
This remarkable finding, made possible by Webb’s Mid-Infrared Instrument, marks the first instance of silica particles being observed in an exoplanet’s atmosphere. The detection of quartz crystals provides valuable insights into the chemical composition and atmospheric conditions of distant planets.
These diverse developments mark another eventful week for NASA as it continues to pursue groundbreaking research and exploration. Stay tuned for more exciting updates from the world of space science.