The Interstellar Mapping and Acceleration Probe (IMAP) is a NASA heliophysics mission scheduled for launch on April 29, 2025. 

Falcon 9 will launch @NASA’s super cool Interstellar Mapping and Acceleration Probe (IMAP), which will help researchers better understand the boundary of the heliosphere, a magnetic barrier surrounding our solar system → https://t.co/HfQaFt4l6Y pic.twitter.com/ORKeuZc1bK

— SpaceX (@SpaceX) September 25, 2020

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Its primary objectives are to:

1. Investigate the Acceleration of Energetic Particles: IMAP aims to study how particles are accelerated within the heliosphere, the bubble-like region of space dominated by the solar wind. Understanding these acceleration mechanisms is crucial for comprehending space weather phenomena that can impact satellite operations and astronaut safety. 

https://twitter.com/theNASciences/status/1675867165746929664

2. Examine the Interaction Between the Solar Wind and the Local Interstellar Medium: The mission will explore how the solar wind interacts with the interstellar medium—the matter that exists in the space between star systems. This interaction defines the boundaries of our solar system and influences the shielding effect of the heliosphere against cosmic radiation. 

To achieve these goals, IMAP will be equipped with ten scientific instruments designed to sample and analyze particles streaming from the edges of interstellar space. The spacecraft will be positioned at the Sun–Earth L1 Lagrange point, approximately one million miles from Earth, providing a continuous vantage point for observing solar and interstellar interactions. 

By enhancing our understanding of particle acceleration and the heliosphere’s boundary, IMAP will contribute to our knowledge of space weather dynamics and the broader cosmic environment surrounding our solar system.