Why the stamps were issued: To showcase the science behind the Sun, revealing its powerful and mysterious phenomena.
About the stamp designs: This set includes 10 stamps featuring colorized images from NASA??s Solar Dynamics Observatory. Each color represents a different wavelength that highlights various aspects of the Sun.
First Day City: The First Day of Issue Ceremony was originally planned at NASA Goddard Space Flight Center but was moved to Greenbelt Main Post Office due to the Juneteenth Federal Holiday.
History: Humans have studied the Sun for nearly all of history, learning much about our solar system??s star, yet many aspects remain a mystery. In 2021, the USPS issued a set of 10 Forever stamps highlighting Sun Science. These designs depict various solar phenomena, such as coronal holes, solar flares, plasma blasts, sunspots, and the active Sun.
Importance of the Sun: The Sun is essential for life on Earth, providing light, warmth, and energy. Solar energy holds great potential, with even advanced solar panels capturing only about 22% of the Sun??s energy. If solar panel efficiency increases, solar energy could meet the world??s electricity needs??requiring just 3.27% of the US to be covered with solar panels. Imagine the possibilities with 50% or more solar energy!
