Heliophysics is the study of our star, the Sun [helio], and how its behavior [physics] affects Earth, the solar system, and the very nature of space.

The Science Mission Directorate Heliophysics Division studies the nature of the Sun, and how it influences the very nature of space – and, in turn, the atmospheres of planets and the technology that exists there. Space is not, as is often believed, completely empty; instead, we live in the extended atmosphere of an active star. Our Sun sends out a steady outpouring of particles and energy – the solar wind – as well as a constantly writhing magnetic system. This extensive, dynamic solar atmosphere surrounds the Sun, Earth, the planets, and extends far out into the solar system.

Everyone has a connection to the Sun!                   

The Sun can provide a fun and exciting laboratory for exploring magnetism, gravity, light, energy, and much more! Learning about the Sun and its influence on the solar system can help scientists understand how the universe began, how stars and planets are formed, and how life can exist on Earth. Studying this system not only helps us understand fundamental information about how the universe works, but also helps protect our technology and astronauts in space. NASA seeks knowledge of near-Earth space, because – when extreme – space weather can interfere with our communications, satellites and power grids.

“Heliophysics education activation” is a need because [1] heliophysics is a relatively new discipline of science, so therefore [2] people are unfamiliar with the term and [3] many educators may feel intimidated by the term. The term is also not mentioned in the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) and the heliosphere is not included in models of Earth’s systems.

Heliophysics topics are naturally interdisciplinary and offer an engaging way to explore Earth science concepts, as well as demonstrate the fundamentals of physical and life sciences. 

From the core of the Sun, where nuclear fusion reactions create its energy, to auroral displays in Earth’s atmosphere, heliophysics topics span beyond solar science. Popular heliophysics topics include: aurora, coronal mass ejection, solar flare, geomagnetic storm, magnetic reconnection, solar eclipse, solar wind, space weather, and sunspot.

The NASA Heliophysics Systems Observatory works with other NASA systems observatories to give NASA a complete picture of the Sun-Earth System.

By studying the Sun and other objects in the solar system, scientists can learn more about other stars and planetary systems. In turn, learning about other stars can teach us about the origin of our solar system and the origin of life on Earth. NASA’s heliophysics mission fleet spans the entire heliosphere. From the Voyager Mission, which crossed the heliosphere boundary, and is the only human-made object to leave the heliosphere; to Parker Solar Probe, which will fly into the atmosphere of the Sun, and will be the closest human-made object to ever “touch the Sun.”

The Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) were created by the National Research Council’s (NRC) framework for K-12 Science Education and drive the science curricula in forty-four states.

Using the three main questions that heliophysicists investigate as the foundation the Framework for Heliophysics Education cross-references heliophysics topics with NGSS disciplinary core ideas to allow classroom teachers to easily infuse heliophysics concepts into existing Earth, physical, and life science curricula. The NGSS also serves as a research-based guide for what students can learn at each level which can be used by informal educators, communicators, and outreach specialists to plan age-appropriate activities for events.

Start exploring the Heliophysics Big Ideas below to find age-appropriate activities and resources for your learners! Or go directly to searching our Resource Database and filter by NGSS performance expectation.