Parker Solar Probe Sets New Record, Approaching Within 6.1 Million Kilometers of the Sun's Surface During Its 22nd Orbit

NASA's Parker Solar Probe (PSP) has achieved a new milestone, reaching a record distance of 6.1 million kilometers from the Sun's surface during its 22nd orbit on February 22. This is closer than Mercury's orbit. Launched in 2018, PSP aims to study the Sun and its corona, enduring temperatures up to 1370°C. The probe periodically aligns with Venus, using its gravity to adjust its orbit. During its mission, PSP executed seven gravitational maneuvers with Venus. The last maneuver, in November 2024, set the probe on its final orbit. At its closest approach, PSP traveled at 692,000 km/h. After the flyby, the probe signaled Earth, confirming its operational status. This close approach allows PSP to gather data on solar wind and activity. Data transmission to Earth will occur after PSP moves away from the Sun. NASA may extend its mission, as the probe remains in good condition.