NOAA’s Coronagraph Captures Moon Passing in Front of the Sun

A remarkable image captured by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Compact Coronagraph-1 (CCOR-1) reveals the moon photobombing the sun. This extraordinary phenomenon occurred as the CCOR-1, positioned on the GOES-19 satellite, observed the sun’s corona, the outer atmosphere that is typically obscured by the sun’s intense brightness.

Innovative Technology in Solar Observation

The CCOR-1 was launched in June 2024 to enhance the study of solar activity. Unlike its predecessors, which are located further from Earth, this coronagraph operates from a geostationary orbit just above the equator. This unique positioning allows it to provide unprecedented views of solar phenomena and other celestial bodies, including the moon.

By employing an occulting disk, the CCOR-1 effectively simulates a solar eclipse, enabling scientists to focus on the sun’s fainter corona. This technique helps researchers analyze solar winds and other critical solar activities that can significantly impact Earth’s space weather.

A Unique Encounter

In a recent image, the moon was seen moving across the coronagraph’s field of view, almost directly obscuring the sun. This occurrence is relatively rare, as most coronagraphs are located further away and cannot capture such close interactions. The proximity of the CCOR-1 to Earth means that occasional lunar transits can be observed, providing valuable data for solar research.

Interestingly, although the moon appears nearly full in the image, it is not a full moon. The brightness seen in the photograph results from Earthshine—sunlight reflecting off the Earth’s surface and illuminating the moon. The CCOR-1’s high-resolution capabilities enabled it to capture this phenomenon vividly.

The implications of this technology extend beyond mere curiosity. NOAA plans to equip future GOES satellites with similar coronagraphs to continue advancing our understanding of solar dynamics. This ongoing research is vital for predicting space weather events that can affect satellite communications and power grids on Earth.

The recent image serves as a reminder of how innovative technology can enhance our understanding of both the sun and its relationship with other celestial bodies. For those interested in further exploring NOAA’s solar research, additional resources are available through their official channels.