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4d ago

NASA Successfully Leads Uranus Stellar Occultation Study After 30-Year Gap

The April 7 event provided unprecedented data on Uranus' atmosphere, rings, and orbit, advancing groundwork for future exploration.

A Webb image of Uranus, its rings, and 9 of its 27 moons. Image: NASA, ESA, CSA, STScI
Rare Alignment Gives NASA A Chance To Peer Into Uranus
Image

Overview

  • NASA's Langley Research Center coordinated an international team of over 30 astronomers using 18 observatories to observe the rare stellar occultation.
  • The event yielded detailed measurements of Uranus' stratospheric temperature, density, and pressure across multiple altitudes using light curve analysis.
  • Scientists refined Uranus' orbital position to within about 100 miles, a significant improvement for future mission planning.
  • The April 2025 campaign builds on a November 2024 test run and marks the first large-scale Uranus occultation study since 1996.
  • Preparations are underway for additional occultations through 2031, including a brighter star event anticipated that year, to deepen understanding of Uranus' atmosphere and rings.