Parker Solar Probe Makes Second Close Approach to the Sun on Saturday

NASA's Parker Solar Probe executed its second close approach to the Sun on Saturday, following its record-breaking first pass in December. The spacecraft ventured within 3.8 million miles (6 million kilometers) of the solar surface, closer than any previous object. Due to the flyby occurring outside communication range, confirmation from Parker is expected Tuesday afternoon. The probe, the fastest spacecraft ever built, is projected to reach speeds of 430,000 mph (690,000 kph) at its closest point. Launched in 2018, Parker has already traversed the Sun's corona. Scientists anticipate that data gathered will provide insights into the corona's extreme heat and the mechanics of the solar wind.