Heliospheric Plasma

Heliospheric plasma refers to the hot, ionized gas that fills the space around the Sun, extending all the way to the edges of the solar system. Composed mainly of electrons and protons, this plasma is emitted by the Sun’s solar wind—a stream of charged particles. It creates the heliosphere, a protective bubble that shields our solar system from some cosmic radiation. The plasma is shaped and influenced by the Sun’s magnetic field and solar activity, affecting space weather and phenomena such as auroras on Earth. Understanding heliospheric plasma helps scientists predict space conditions and protect satellites and astronauts.