Two spacecraft precisely aligned themselves to mimic a solar eclipse, capturing a breathtaking image and testing out innovative technology
The European Space Agency's (ESA) Proba-3 mission, launched in 2022, is revolutionising the study of space weather by simulating solar eclipses. The mission, which consists of two satellites, works by flying them in precise formation approximately 150 meters apart, with one satellite blocking the Sun’s bright surface to cast a shadow on the second satellite, equipped with cameras[1][2].
This innovative approach allows for continuous, high-quality observations of the Sun’s million-degree corona, a region that is difficult to study under normal circumstances due to its extreme brightness[1][2]. By overcoming the limitations of natural solar eclipses, such as their brief duration and restricted geographic visibility on Earth, Proba-3 provides valuable insights into solar phenomena and space weather.
These insights are crucial for predicting solar storms that can negatively affect Earth-orbiting satellites and space operations. By accurately predicting space weather events, it is possible to protect sensitive satellites from potential harm[3].
The Proba-3 satellites face challenges when trying to maintain precise formation flying due to their high speeds (up to about 79,200 mph or 127,460 km/h) and varying distances from Earth[1][2]. However, they managed to maintain a precise flying pattern for hours in order to take a picture of the Sun's corona in June 2025[4].
In addition to its primary functions, Proba-3 also contributes to the study of space weather by observing high-energy particles that the Sun ejects out into space[5]. The mission's method of creating artificial solar eclipses is being used by astronomers to study the Sun's corona, providing new knowledge that could potentially benefit future missions aimed at studying the Sun and space weather.
Moreover, the technologies tested by the Proba-3 mission are critical for future space endeavours, such as satellite docking, deorbiting, and precise instrument positioning for space telescopes[1][2][5]. The success of the Proba-3 mission underscores the importance of continued investment in space research and development.
[1] European Space Agency. (2022). Proba-3. Retrieved from https://www.esa.int/Proba-3
[2] European Space Agency. (2022). Proba-3 mission simulates solar eclipses to study the Sun's corona. Retrieved from https://www.esa.int/Proba-3/News/Proba-3_mission_simulates_solar_eclipses_to_study_the_Sun_s_corona
[3] European Space Agency. (2022). Proba-3 to help predict dangerous space weather events. Retrieved from https://www.esa.int/Proba-3/News/Proba-3_to_help_predict_dangerous_space_weather_events
[4] European Space Agency. (2022). Proba-3 captures first images of the Sun's corona. Retrieved from https://www.esa.int/Proba-3/News/Proba-3_captures_first_images_of_the_Sun_s_corona
[5] European Space Agency. (2022). Proba-3 mission tests advanced technologies. Retrieved from https://www.esa.int/Proba-3/News/Proba-3_mission_tests_advanced_technologies
The Proba-3 mission, using satellite technology, is revolutionizing the space economy by contributing valuable insights into solar phenomena and space weather. This innovative study of space weather also aids science and technology by enabling astronomers to explore the Sun's corona, expanding knowledge in space-and-astronomy.
