Spacewatch: Solar Orbiter sends first data back to Earth

Spacecraft completes first critical stage of mission after successful deployment of boom arm

The European Space Agency's Solar Orbiter has completed the first critical stage of its mission. Launched on 10 February from Cape Canaveral, Florida, the spacecraft has sent back its first readings after the deployment of its 4.4 metre-long boom arm.

Made of titanium and carbon fibre, the boom arm points away from the spacecraft. It was folded for launch and carries sensors for three of the mission's science instruments, including the magnetometer. Had it failed to deploy, the mission's objectives would have been severely compromised.