The solar array tests for NASA's PUNCH mission were successfully conducted in a cleanroom environment, ensuring the spacecraft's sensitive equipment remains uncontaminated. These tests are crucial as PUNCH prepares for its launch scheduled for next month.
PUNCH comprises a constellation of four suitcase-sized satellites designed to capture continuous 3D imagery of the Sun's corona and the solar wind as it expands into the solar system. Managed by the Southwest Research Institute (SwRI) for NASA, the mission aims to enhance understanding of the Sun's outer atmosphere and the solar wind's effects on Earth's technology and space exploration.
With solar arrays tested, PUNCH is advancing towards its mission readiness. The spacecraft will launch as part of a rideshare with NASA's SPHEREx mission aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket, scheduled to lift off from Vandenberg Space Force Base's Space Launch Complex 4E no earlier than Thursday, February 27.