European satellites have successfully created artificial solar eclipses by flying in precise formation, offering scientists hours of on-demand totality. Launched by the European Space Agency, the orbiting duo has been producing simulated solar eclipses since March. Flying 492 feet apart, one satellite blocks the sun while the other observes the corona, the sun’s outer atmosphere. This intricate dance is achieved through precise positioning, guided by GPS navigation, star trackers, lasers, and radio links. The mission, named Proba-3, has already generated 10 successful solar eclipses, with plans to produce nearly 200 during the two-year mission. Scientists are excited about the potential for extensive scientific observations during these artificially created eclipses. (Newser)
