Helio Big Year - NASA Science

The Heliophysics Big Year is a global celebration of solar science and the Sun’s influence on Earth and the entire solar system. Join us October 2023 to December 2024!

Nicky Fox, associate administrator for NASA's Science Mission Directorate, shares what to look forward to during the Heliophysics Big Year. Credits: NASA

What is the Heliophysics Big Year?
During the Heliophysics Big Year, you will have the opportunity to participate in many solar science events such as watching solar eclipses, experiencing an aurora, participating in citizen science projects, and other fun Sun-related activities.

What is heliophysics?
Heliophysics is the study of our star and how it interacts with everything in our solar system.

What is a Big Year?
The “Big Year” is a concept that originated with citizen scientists in the bird-watching community. During their Big Year, birders attempt to observe and study as many bird species as possible during a calendar year, and we are challenging you to do the same with our Sun.

Can groups outside of NASA contribute to the Heliophysics Big Year?
Yes! We are inviting all those interested in sharing the science, art, and beauty of heliophysics to participate in the Heliophysics Big Year. We have created an identifier as a way to tie together the collective efforts of the entire heliophysics community into one cohesive brand. Anyone supporting the Heliophysics Big Year effort may use these resources in accordance with the style guide. You can download the style guide and identifier on the assets page.

Featured Activity: How to Host A Sun Party

One fun way to participate in the Heliophysics Big Year is by hosting a Sun party! At a Sun party, you can safely view and celebrate the Sun with creative activities and games.
Learn more about how you can host a Sun party.

On July 19, 2012, million-degree plasma in the Sun's atmosphere began to cool and fall to the surface, resulting in a dazzling magnetic display known as coronal rain.

Explore Heliophysics

Tendrils of hot plasma stream from the Sun.

Heliophysics

Learn more about heliophysics and why NASA studies it.

Eclipses

Join NASA to experience solar eclipses in 2023 and 2024.

Heliophysics Citizen Science Projects

Choose a citizen science project where you can do real scientific research and contribute to important scientific discoveries in collaboration with NASA heliophysics scientists.