PUNCH (NASA)

The Five W's of PUNCH

Who

NASA.

Source: NASA, PUNCH

What

Four suitcase-sized satellites making 3D images of the corona and solar wind.

Source: NASA, PUNCH

When

Launched March 11, 2025; operating.

Source: NASA, PUNCH

Where

Low Earth orbit, watching the inner heliosphere.

Source: NASA, PUNCH

Why

To learn how the Sun's corona becomes the solar wind that reaches Earth.

Source: NASA, PUNCH

Impact Statement

Agency solution · active

NASA's PUNCH (Polarimeter to Unify the Corona and Heliosphere) is a constellation of four small satellites in low Earth orbit, launched March 11, 2025. Together they make global, 3D observations of the Sun's corona to learn how its mass and energy become the solar wind that fills the solar system, treating the Sun, solar wind and Earth as one connected system.

Source: NASA, PUNCH

Better understanding of the solar wind improves the space weather forecasts that protect satellites and power grids.

For Further Information: NASA, PUNCH