Third Van Allen Belt Discovered - NASA Probes

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In summary, NASA's Van Allen probes have discovered a third, unexpected radiation belt surrounding the Earth. This band appears and disappears in response to the sun's energy and was captured on video by the probes. This is a significant discovery in the study of space and the Earth's radiation environment.
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Mordred
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http://www.space.com/20004-earth-radiation-belt-discovery.html
Article includes short NASA video and informational links.

A third, albeit temporary radiation belt is discovered.
The Van Allen belts, the "first major discovery of the space age", shrink and swell in response to the sun's energy, according to NASA.

Respectfully,
Steve
 
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Thats a better link than te one I posted love the pics as well. Thanks for that
 
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I find this discovery of a third Van Allen Belt to be incredibly exciting and significant. The Van Allen radiation belts are regions of intense radiation surrounding the Earth, and their study is crucial for understanding the effects of space weather on our planet and spacecraft. This new, transient belt adds another layer of complexity to our understanding of these radiation belts and will undoubtedly lead to new insights and discoveries.

The fact that this third belt appeared and disappeared in a matter of days highlights the dynamic and ever-changing nature of space and the need for continuous monitoring and research. The Van Allen Probes have proven to be invaluable tools in our study of these radiation belts, and I look forward to seeing what other surprises they may reveal in the future.

This discovery also emphasizes the importance of international collaboration in scientific research. The Van Allen Probes were a joint project between NASA and the Russian Space Agency, and it is through these partnerships that we are able to make such groundbreaking discoveries.

Overall, the discovery of a third Van Allen Belt is a testament to the endless possibilities and mysteries of our universe, and I am eager to see what other surprises await us in our exploration of space.
 

What is the Third Van Allen Belt?

The Third Van Allen Belt is a ring of energetic particles that surrounds the Earth's magnetic field. It was discovered by NASA probes in 2012.

How was the Third Van Allen Belt discovered?

NASA's twin Van Allen Probes, also known as the Radiation Belt Storm Probes, were launched in 2012 to study the Earth's radiation belts. They discovered the Third Van Allen Belt by measuring the energetic particles in the Earth's magnetosphere.

Why is the discovery of the Third Van Allen Belt significant?

The Third Van Allen Belt adds to our understanding of the Earth's radiation belts, which are important for space weather and the protection of satellites and astronauts in space. It also challenges previous theories about the structure and behavior of the radiation belts.

What are the potential implications of the Third Van Allen Belt?

Further research on the Third Van Allen Belt could help us better understand and predict space weather events, which can disrupt communications and satellite operations. It could also inform future spacecraft design and operations to better protect against the harsh radiation in the Earth's magnetosphere.

Are there any plans for further research on the Third Van Allen Belt?

Yes, NASA's Van Allen Probes mission is ongoing and continues to study the Third Van Allen Belt and the Earth's radiation belts. The data collected is also being used by scientists around the world to further our knowledge of this fascinating phenomenon.

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