European satellites launched to create artificial solar eclipses for scientific study
A pair of European satellites launched from India aim to create artificial solar eclipses. This mission, called Proba-3, will allow scientists to study the sun's corona for six hours, significantly longer than natural eclipses. The satellites will separate and fly 492 feet apart, using advanced technology to maintain precise positions. 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 2025, following the satellites' operational checks.