Human space adventure extends far beyond our solar system, but the space between the stars remains largely unknown. Despite the progress made with probes such as Voyager 1 and 2, our knowledge of the heliosphere, the region where the solar wind meets the interstellar medium, remains incomplete. In this context, researchers are looking at the need to send a new probe to better understand this cosmic frontier. To do this, they mapped the best routes.
Understanding the heliosphere
Although it is often depicted as a spherical bubble around the solar system, the heliosphere may actually have a much more complex shape. Recent research suggests that this cosmic boundary could be stretched in a particular direction or even have a crescent shape. The potential complexity of its shape raises important questions about its functioning and its impact on our space environment.
Understanding the precise shape of the heliosphere is indeed crucial to assessing its role in protecting astronauts and life in general from harmful galactic radiation.
Remember that this structure acts as a shield, deflecting a large part of the cosmic radiation coming from interstellar space. However, if its shape is not uniform, some sectors could protect less well against this radiation, potentially exposing astronauts and space equipment to dangerous levels of radiation.
To determine the true shape of the heliosphere to more accurately assess its protective effect and influence on the space environment, Dr. Sarah A. Spitzer, of the University of Michigan, and Dr. Marc Kornbleuth, of the Boston University, propose sending a probe back on site. But which path to take?
Go through the sides
Currently, only the Voyager 1 and 2 probes are in interstellar space, but their ability to study this environment is limited. These probes, initially designed to explore giant planets, do not go far enough from the “nose” of the heliosphere to provide a complete picture of its shape and functioning.
As part of their study, the researchers then identified six potential trajectoriestheir objective being to maximize scientific discoveries while taking into account technological constraints and logistical challenges.
A major conclusion of their study is that crossing the flanks of the heliosphere would be an optimal solution for studying interstellar space and obtaining a better understanding of its shape. That is, scientists are referring to the idea of traveling through the side or peripheral regions of this protective bubble rather than moving directly toward its front or back.
According to projections, a probe following one of the trajectories identified by the researchers could make it possible to reach up to 400 AU, or even 1000 AUproviding an unprecedented view of our cosmic shield. As a reminder, an astronomical unit (AU) is equivalent to the Earth-Sun distance, or approximately 150 million kilometers. For comparison, Voyager 1, which recently experienced major computer problems, is currently at around 163 astronomical units (AU) of Earth.
An essential exploration to anticipate the future of space
As humanity considers long-duration manned missions to deep space, accurately understanding the heliosphere becomes a strategic priority. This natural shield could indeed play a crucial role in the safety of astronauts and equipment against galactic radiation. In addition, the data collected by a new interstellar mission could not only enrich our knowledge of the space environment, but also guide the design of future ships and habitats, adapting them to the challenges posed by uneven protection against cosmic radiation. This research is not only a scientific advance: it represents an essential milestone for the sustainable exploration of deep space.
Details of the study are published in Frontiers in Astronomy and Space Sciences.
