A total solar eclipse generates gravitational waves in Earth’s atmosphere, similar to the ripples formed when something is dropped into still water.
The air in Earth’s atmosphere is also affected by dramatic events like a solar eclipse in the same way.
During the total solar eclipse on April 8, 2024, scientists observed gravitational waves in the upper atmosphere of Earth, which returned to normal after the eclipse.
NASA has been conducting ongoing research on how the Sun influences Earth’s atmosphere, and the results are part of this research.
The Nationwide Eclipse Ballooning Project, involving over 800 students across the United States, confirmed the presence of gravitational waves.
For this purpose, balloons equipped with sensors were released at high altitudes. As the shadow of the Moon spread across the continent, these balloons observed changes in the atmosphere, helping to understand how the atmosphere reacts when sunlight suddenly disappears.
Similarly, ham radio operators participated in the HamSCI project, sending and receiving signals with over 52 million data points before, during, and after the eclipse.
Their efforts revealed that low-frequency signals improved during the eclipse, while high frequencies were significantly affected.
This suggests how a solar eclipse influences radio communications and alters the behavior of charged particles in the atmosphere.
NASA’s two WB-57 aircraft flew above the clouds to observe the effects of the eclipse.
Using advanced cameras and spectrometers, scientists successfully captured detailed images of the Sun’s corona.
The collaboration between students and cutting-edge technology has provided greater insight into how a solar eclipse affects Earth.
