Theory Thursday: When the Unexplainable Becomes Explained

Art by @basilonmypizza

For centuries, many believed the Earth was fixed, continents never shifted, and diseases came from “bad air.” Then science stepped in—with simple observations like falling apples, fossil records, and microscopic bacteria—to set the record straight.

A modern example is NASA’s Parker Solar Probe. It’s flying closer to the Sun than ever (unlike Icarus, it’s doing just fine) to uncover hidden truths.

I’ve long been captivated by the solar wind. In 1998, Thomas and I used ion charge states as thermometers to estimate temperatures (see https://lnkd.in/d5FwyerP for details). It’s fascinating how straightforward tools can reveal so much:

❄ Charge states “freeze in” as the solar wind expands, preserving a snapshot of solar temperatures.
☕ The first solar wind measurements? Just a metal cup collecting ions. The resulting current indicated ion density.
🤖 In space, bandwidth and data quality are limited, so we apply AI and machine learning to detect hidden structures—just as we do in business, finance, and healthcare.

With each new dataset from the Parker Solar Probe, we gain deeper insight into how the solar wind forms. I’m eager to see the breakthroughs and real-world applications that follow.

💡 The big lesson? What feels impossible today often becomes routine tomorrow—when we keep asking questions.

What’s a once-“impossible” breakthrough that now drives your industry? Let’s discuss. ⬇️

Art by @basilonmypizza: https://lnkd.in/eF8FkWzN, https://basilhefti.ch/