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Solar Dynamics Observatory (Artist's Concept)

Feb. 11, 2010
The Solar Dynamics Observatory (SDO) spacecraft, shown above the Earth as it faces toward the Sun. SDO is designed to study the influence of the Sun on the Earth and the inner solar system by studying the solar atmosphere.

NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory (SDO) spacecraft, shown above the Earth as it faces toward the Sun.

SDO is designed to study the influence of the Sun on the Earth and the inner solar system by studying the solar atmosphere simultaneously in several wavelengths. The orbiting observatory will determine if it is possible to make reliable space weather forecasts. Solar storms can disrupt satellites, power grids and radio communication and harm astronauts in space.