The European Space Agency (ESA) is launching the Proba-3 mission, which aims to create artificial solar eclipses using two satellites in precise formation. Scheduled to launch from India, the mission will align the satellites to cast a controlled shadow, enabling continuous observation of the sun’s corona—unlike natural eclipses, which are brief and weather-dependent.
Also Read: NASA Unveils Spectacular Solar Eclipses for Coming Years
Proba-3 will produce 50 artificial eclipses annually, each lasting six hours. This innovative approach will improve understanding of solar phenomena like coronal mass ejections, which impact Earth’s technology. The mission also tests satellite servicing and space debris removal, paving the way for future space observatories.
