Watch: Studying the Sun

20 July 2010

Links:

mssl.ucl.ac.uk/" target="_self">UCL Mullard Space Science Laboratory

UCL is heavily involved in the design of a proposed space mission to study the Sun in unprecedented detail.

If selected for development by the European Space Agency (ESA), Solar Orbiter will travel closer to the Sun than any previous spacecraft.

The data it collects could provide major breakthroughs in our understanding of how the inner Solar System works and is driven by solar activity.

In this video Professor Louise Harra from UCL's Mullard Space Science Laboratory (MSSL) explains the term 'solar maximum' - and why space scientists think the phenomenon could have a significant impact on everyday life on Earth.

For more information about MSSL, follow the link above.

Image: Bottom right, the Sun.

UCL context

MSSL is the UK's largest university-based space science research group and delivers a cutting-edge science programme, underpinned by a capability in space science instrumentation, systems engineering and project management.

Watch: Studying the Sun

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