An Earth-moving mission from NASA's Parker Solar Probe (PSP) has successfully travelled through solar wind for the very first time, with aims of preventing a global broadband blackout. Scientists have issued numerous warnings about the potential consequences of a solar storm - which could strike within the next decade or so.
The spacecraft, which launched five years ago, embarked on a remarkable journey close to the sun's surface - where solar winds are generated. The wind consists of a continuous stream of charged particles which emanate from the sun's corona.
And despite extreme heat and intense radiation, the Parker persevered to gather crucial, never before discovered insights into the inner workings of the closet star to the Earth. Professor Stuart Bale, who is the lead author of the study - and also affiliated with the California University - explained the vital importance of understanding solar winds.
