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Picard
What is the Sun’s diameter? In the 17th century, French astronomer Jean Picard was the first to make rigorous measurements. A few centuries later, from 2010 to 2014, the Picard microsatellite acquired extremely precise data to measure the Sun’s rate of rotation, the flattening of its poles and radiated power (total and spectral irradiance), while also probing its interior (helioseismology).
Research scientists are today analysing and exploiting this treasure trove of data that will tell us more about our Sun’s inner workings and its impact on Earth’s climate.
CNES initiated the Picard mission and was responsible for developing the satellite’s Myriade bus and for in-orbit operations.
Mission's news feed
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Transit of Venus in 2012 by PICARD
The 6.5-hour transit of Venus in front of the Sun took place during the night of 5 to 6 June 2012. The final part of this transit could be seen from Europe only on June 6th right...
June 6, 2012
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Picard returns 1st image of Sun
The CNES microsatellite has delivered a 1st image of the Sun. Teams on the ground will use this image to make final adjustments before the science mission begins.
July 28, 2010
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Picard and PRISMA in orbit
The 2 satellites reached orbit Tuesday 15 June atop their Dnepr launcher after lifting off from the Yasny space base in Russia.
June 15, 2010