NASA spacecraft makes closest-ever approach to the Sun

The Parker Solar Probe has successfully completed its close approach to the sun, passing within 3.8 million miles of the solar surface on December 24. The spacecraft withstood temperatures of up to 1,800 degrees Fahrenheit and sent a "proof of life" signal to Earth on December 25. This signal was received via a tracking station in Australia. The mission aims to uncover secrets of the sun's corona and solar wind. NASA confirmed that the probe is safe and operating normally after its historic flyby.