NASA will deploy a high-altitude research aircraft and scientific balloons during the August 12 total solar eclipse to study the Sun’s corona and atmospheric changes.

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• NASA’s WB-57 research aircraft will chase the Moon’s shadow, allowing scientists to collect valuable eclipse data for a longer period from high altitudes.
• The aircraft will provide researchers with a rare opportunity to study the Sun’s outer atmosphere, known as the corona, during totality.
• Teams supported by NASA’s Nationwide Eclipse Ballooning Project will release balloons to measure atmospheric changes as daylight suddenly turns into darkness during totality.
• The August 12 total solar eclipse will provide scientists with valuable conditions for investigating solar activity and its effects on Earth’s surrounding environment.
• Researchers will examine the Sun’s corona during the eclipse, potentially generating new information about solar activity that is difficult to observe under normal conditions.
• NASA officials emphasize that the Sun influences daily life, satellites and astronauts, making detailed observations important for understanding its broader effects.
• Students and research teams involved in the balloon project will collect atmospheric measurements, adding valuable observations to data gathered through conventional ground-based eclipse studies.
• By combining aircraft, balloons and coordinated research teams, NASA aims to develop a deeper understanding of solar activity and changes in Earth’s atmosphere.