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NASA's WB-57F aircraft observed total solar eclipse above clouds off Iceland on August 12, 2026
NASA's WB-57F high-altitude research aircraft flew at 50,000 feet off the coast of Iceland on August 12, 2026, to observe a total solar eclipse from above the clouds and atmospheric interference. The aircraft followed the eclipse's path of totality, capturing high-resolution images of the solar corona emerging at the beginning of totality, with Venus, Jupiter, and Mercury visible near the eclipsed Sun. This observation was conducted to maximize eclipse viewing time and reduce atmospheric distortions experienced at ground level. NASA provided this information along with related imagery through APOD on September 5, 2026.
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Facts
- Established factNASA
NASA's WB-57F high-altitude research aircraft flew at 50,000 feet off the coast of Iceland on August 12, 2026, to observe a total solar eclipse.
- Established factNASA
The aircraft was piloted along the eclipse's path of totality to maximize time in the Moon's shadow and captured high-resolution images of the solar corona.
- Established factNASA
Venus, Jupiter, and Mercury were visible near the eclipsed Sun during the observation from the WB-57F aircraft at 50,000 feet.
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