Parker Solar Probe and the Sun

What was the primary mission of the Parker Solar Probe launched by NASA?

• To observe distant galaxies

• To explore the outer planets

• To study the Earth's atmosphere

• To touch the Sun

What is the Alfvén critical surface?

• The Sun's core

• The boundary of the Sun's atmosphere

• The Earth's magnetic field

• The surface of the Moon

Why is the solar corona a mystery to scientists?

• It is 300 times hotter than the photosphere

• It is cooler than the photosphere

• It is not visible from Earth

• It is the same temperature as the photosphere

What significant milestone did the Parker Solar Probe achieve in April 2021?

• It discovered a new planet

• It left the solar system

• It crossed into the solar corona

• It landed on the Sun

What did the Parker Solar Probe discover about the boundary between the corona and solar wind?

• It is made of ice

• It is non-existent

• It is wrinkly

• It is smooth

What are switchbacks in the solar wind?

• Magnetic field reversals

• Sudden changes in wind direction

• Areas of calm in the solar wind

• Regions of high solar activity

Where did scientists trace the origin of switchbacks?

• The Moon

• The outer planets

• The visible surface of the Sun

• The Earth's atmosphere

What is the significance of understanding the Sun for humanity?

• It is not significant

• It is critical for searching for life beyond our solar system

• It aids in agricultural development

• It helps in predicting weather patterns

What is the main goal of the Parker Solar Probe's ongoing mission?

• To explore Mars

• To map the Earth's surface

• To study the Sun up close

• To observe distant stars

What is one of the biggest questions for humanity that the Parker Solar Probe's mission might help answer?

• How to travel faster than light

• Are we alone in the universe?

• How to colonize Mars

• What is the meaning of life?