Events

Heliospheric exploration has reached unprecedented heights in recent decades, driven by cutting-edge space missions, ground-based observatories, and breakthroughs in computing, modeling, and theory. Yet, our progress in inner-heliospheric research remains constrained by observational limitations that hinder our ability to resolve long-standing questions—such as the mechanisms behind the solar dynamo, the solar cycle, solar wind acceleration, and the magnetic activity that drives space weather and affects Earth. These challenges stem largely from observing our dynamic, three-dimensional star from a single vantage point near the ecliptic plane.

Achieving holistic, full 4π-steradian observations of the Sun and inner heliosphere is essential to close critical knowledge gaps in heliophysics and astrophysics. Such comprehensive perspectives—gained through simultaneous multi-point observations—would revolutionize our understanding of the solar interior, atmosphere, and the evolution of structures throughout the inner heliosphere. As humanity sets its sights on sustained exploration of the Moon and Mars, the meaning of space weather will expand, and continuous, global solar monitoring will become a cornerstone of the inner heliosphere’s “system of systems.” In this talk, I will present the scientific imperative for a full-sphere view of our star and examine how this paradigm shift aligns with the future of heliophysics.

Watch the recording.