Spacewatch: Solar Orbiter sends first data back to Earth

Spacecraft completes first critical stage of mission after successful deployment of boom armThe European Space Agency ’sSolar Orbiter hascompleted the first critical stage of its mission. Launched on 10 February from Cape Canaveral, Florida, the spacecraft hassent back its first readings after the deployment of its 4.4 metre-long boom arm.Made of titanium and carbon fibre, the boom arm points away from the spacecraft. It was folded for launch and carries sensors for three of the mission ’s science instruments, including the magnetometer. Had it failed to deploy, the mission’s objectives would have been severely compromised.Continue reading...

Source: Guardian Unlimited Science - February 20, 2020 Category: Science Authors: Stuart Clark Tags: The sun Space European Space Agency Science Source Type: news