Van Allen Probes

The Van Allen Probes are two spacecraft launched by NASA to study Earth's radiation belts—zones of energetic particles trapped by the planet's magnetic field. These belts can impact satellites and space missions, so understanding them helps protect technology and astronauts. The probes measure particle types, energies, and how they change over time, providing insights into space weather phenomena. Launched in 2012, they improve our knowledge of the dynamic environment around Earth, helping us better predict space weather effects and ensure the safety and reliability of space-based infrastructure.