What is heliophysics?
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.
Why should I teach heliophysics?
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.
How do I teach heliophysics?
Explore the Framework for Heliophysics Education to learn more about how to incorporate heliophysics into your existing educational programming.
The Framework for Heliophysic Education outlines key concepts, practices, and strategies for integrating solar science into educational curricula and learning activities. It provides educators, scientists, and outreach professionals with a cohesive set of Heliophysics Big Ideas that align with the three questions that drive NASA's heliophysics research. Each Heliophyiscs Big Idea has guiding questions for each level of learner, designed to support inquiry-based learning.
What are Heliophysics Big Ideas?
Heliophysics Big Ideas are a comprehensive set of nine overacrching heliophysics concepts that align with NASA's research.
The Framework for Heliophysics Education outlines key concepts, practices, and strategies for integrating heliophysics into educational curricula, outreach activities, and informal learning environments. It provides educators, scientists, and outreach professionals with a cohesive set of Heliophysics Big Ideas that align with NASA's heliophysics research and broader educational initiatives. Each Heliophyiscs Big Idea has guiding questions for each level of learner, designed to support inquiry-based learning.
Explore Educator Resources
Explore NASA's media galleries to view and download high-resolution images of the solar system, agency missions, and more.
Who is NASA HEAT?
The NASA Heliophysics Education Activation Team (NASA HEAT) is comprised of scientists, engineers, and educators who work collaboratively to bring heliophysics resources to learning spaces across the country.<br><br>NASA HEAT’s mission is to increase heliophysics literacy and deepen public understanding about NASA Science by uniting existing NASA Science Mission Directorate (SMD) assets with educators, learners of all ages, and communities across the country.
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Heliophysics Big Ideas
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01
The Sun is really big and its gravity influences all objects in the Solar System.
Relevant Topics: corona, lunar eclipse, lunar phases, Newton's Law of Gravity, seasons, solar eclipse, solar system, transits
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02
The Sun is active and can impact technology via space weather.
Relevant Topics: atmosphere, aurora, coronal mass ejection, geomagnetic storm, ionization, magnetic fields, magnetic reconnection, magnetosphere, magnetotail, plasma, radio blackout, solar cycle, solar flare, solar wind, space weather, sunspots, Van Allen belts
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03
The Sun's energy drives Earth's climate, but the climate is in a delicate balance and is changing due to human activity.
Relevant Topics: atmosphere, climate change, energy, greenhouse effect, radiation
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04
Life on Earth has evolved with complex diversity because of our location near the Sun. It is just right!
Relevant Topics: atmosphere, biosphere, energy, habitable zone, light, magnetosphere, photosynthesis, radiation
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05
The Sun defines the space around it, which is different from interstellar space.
Relevant Topics: heliosphere, interstellar space, magnetic fields, plasma, solar wind, space weather
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06
The Sun is the primary light source in the solar system.
Relevant Topics: electromagnetic spectrum, energy, light, photosynthesis, radiation, spectroscopy
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07
The Sun is made of churning plasma, causing the surface to be covered with complex, tangled magnetic fields.
Relevant Topics: coronal mass ejection, electromagnetism, energy, ionization, magnetic fields, magnetic reconnection, plasma, solar cycle, solar flare, solar wind, space weather, sunspots
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08
Energy from the Sun is created in the core and travels outward through the Sun and into the heliosphere.
Relevant Topics: convection, corona, energy, heliosphere, light, nuclear fusion, plasma, radiation, solar wind, space weather
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09
Our Sun, like all stars, has a life cycle.
Relevant Topics: light, nuclear fusion, solar cycle, spectroscopy, stellar evolution, sunspots
Helio and You
This article series for educators aims to engage learners of all ages with the exciting world of solar science. Our goal is to help educators inspire students by connecting informal and classroom learning to real NASA events, mission launches, and historic heliophysics milestones.
Explore Articles to Inspire Learners
