"2024 Solar Eclipse: NASA's Rockets to Explore Rare Space Marvel and Eclipse Impact"
NASA plans to launch three research rockets on April 8 to study the impact of a rare total solar eclipse on Earth's upper atmosphere. The rockets, part of the APEP mission, will analyze how the eclipse affects the ionosphere and atmospheric waves, which can disrupt communications. The data collected will be crucial for understanding and predicting disturbances in the ionosphere, with the potential to impact satellite communications. The rockets will reach a maximum altitude of 260 miles and will be equipped with instruments to study the eclipse. NASA will broadcast the eclipse and rocket launches, providing a live viewing for the public.