​The Sun’s has way more outbursts than expected, threatening astronauts in space

^{Parker's ISOIS energetic particle instruments have measured several never-before-seen events so small that all trace of them is lost before they reach Earth (Source: NASA)}

Scientists have observed the Sun’s burst of solar energetic particles in the past, but these outbursts are generally large and irregular. These fast-moving particles are a source of radiation, posing a danger to astronauts and spacecraft as they travel through space or explore the Moon — which lacks any atmospheric protection.

And, these might be more common than previously thought. Parker finds that smaller outbursts of solar energetic particles are happening on a regular basis. Because they’re so small, the particles are undetectable from Earth as they spread out into space.