In March 2015, NASA is scheduled to launch four spacecrafts into space to study and create a 3D map of the magnetic reconnection between the Earth and the sun. Magnetic reconnection occurs when magnetic energy is converted to kinetic or thermal energy.
A single rocket will carry all four spacecrafts into space to be positioned in a pyramid. Once they reach their destination, each spacecraft will break free from the rocket and deploy its foldable extendable limbs. Sensors on the limbs will be used to monitor magnetic fields. The goal of the Magnetospheric Multiscale mission is to better understand the process of how magnetic reconnection occurs.
