European satellites launched to create artificial solar eclipses for scientific study

Two European satellites were launched into orbit on Thursday to create artificial solar eclipses. This mission, called Proba-3, aims to allow scientists to study the sun's corona for six hours at a time, much longer than natural eclipses. The satellites will separate in about a month and fly 492 feet apart, using precise technology to align with the sun. One satellite will block sunlight to the other, mimicking a natural eclipse. The $210 million mission is expected to produce hundreds of eclipses over two years. Initial results are anticipated in March after the satellites complete their operational checks.