TRACERS (NASA)

NASA's twin TRACERS satellites fly through Earth's polar cusps to study magnetic reconnection, a key driver of space weather. Linked to the magnetic shield on Three Shields.

Image: NASA.

Last reviewed: 1 source cited

TRACERS: Mission Status

Active in low Earth orbit. Dates per NASA; missions shift.

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The Five W's of TRACERS

Who

NASA.

Source: NASA, TRACERS

What

Twin satellites studying magnetic reconnection.

Source: NASA, TRACERS

When

Launched July 23, 2025; operating.

Source: NASA, TRACERS

Where

Low Earth , through the polar cusps of Earth's magnetic field.

Source: NASA, TRACERS

Why

To understand and prepare for the impacts of solar activity on Earth.

Source: NASA, TRACERS

Impact Statement

Agency solution · active

NASA's TRACERS (Tandem Reconnection and Cusp Electrodynamics Reconnaissance Satellites) launched on July 23, 2025. The twin satellites fly in low Earth orbit through the polar cusps, funnel-shaped openings in Earth's magnetic field, to study magnetic reconnection: what happens when activity from the Sun meets the that protects us. Understanding it helps scientists prepare for the effects of solar activity on Earth.

Source: NASA, TRACERS

See how the magnetic field shields us on Three Shields.

For Further Information: NASA, TRACERS

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Discussion questions

  1. What is TRACERS (NASA), and what problem does it help solve?
  2. Who is behind TRACERS (NASA), and where does the work happen?
  3. How does TRACERS (NASA) help both people and nature? Use one fact from this page.

Sources are listed with each fact in the Five W's above.

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Cite This Page

APA

Saving Planets. (n.d.). TRACERS (NASA). https://www.savingplanets.com/TRACERS.html

MLA

"TRACERS (NASA)." Saving Planets, https://www.savingplanets.com/TRACERS.html.

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