11 Years Charting Edge of Solar System

The video explores the solar wind and its role in forming the heliosphere, a protective bubble around our solar system. It discusses the solar cycle, which affects the solar wind and heliosphere's size. Scientists use NASA's IBEX to map the heliosphere, revealing its comet-like shape. Observations show asymmetry in the heliosphere's structure, with the nose and tail responding differently to solar wind changes. These findings enhance our understanding of the heliosphere and its potential role in supporting life.

What is the heliosphere and what role does it play in our solar system?

• A region of space dominated by Earth's magnetic field.

• A protective bubble formed by the solar wind around our solar system.

• A belt of asteroids between Mars and Jupiter.

• A cloud of interstellar dust surrounding the Milky Way.

How often does the solar cycle occur, causing changes in the Sun's magnetic field?

• Every 50 years

• Every 5 years

• Every 11 years

• Every 20 years

What tool do scientists use to map the heliosphere, and how does it work?

• Mars Rover, using soil samples

• Interstellar Boundary Explorer (IBEX), using solar wind echoes

• Voyager spacecraft, using radio waves

• Hubble Space Telescope, using visible light

What significant event in 2014 affected the solar wind and the heliosphere?

• A decrease in solar wind pressure

• A solar eclipse

• A huge increase in solar wind pressure

• A meteor shower

How is the shape of the heliosphere described based on recent observations?

• A cube

• A flat disk

• A perfect sphere

• A comet-like shape