On November 6, NASA’s Parker Solar Probe will complete its seventh and final flyby of Venus, which will adjust its trajectory to bring it within 3.8 million miles of the Sun—closer than any human-made object has ever been.

This milestone is a significant achievement, compared to the Apollo moon landing. Launched in 2018, the probe is studying the Sun’s mysteries, such as why its outer atmosphere is much hotter than its surface.

Venus’ gravity assists have been crucial in bringing the spacecraft closer to the Sun.

Additionally, Parker’s flybys have provided valuable insights into Venus, such as revealing surface features through its camera, WISPR, Space.com has reported.

The probe’s closest approach to the Sun will occur on December 24, moving at a record 430,000 mph, with mission control expecting a success confirmation on December 27.

Written by B.C. Begley