Balloon telescope maps thread-like magnetic structures above the Sun
In short
- Scientists used a balloon-borne telescope high above Earth to observe the Sun.
- They found thread-like magnetic structures in the solar atmosphere, apparently shaped by twisting motions on the surface.
- They also mapped magnetic fields inside towering jets of solar material at different heights.
Why the Good News Desk likes this one
The Sun's quiet regions turn out to be more structured than expected. Mapping how magnetic fields change with height inside solar jets gives researchers direct observations to test their models. This is basic research, so its benefits to people are indirect.
From ScienceDaily
The Sun’s seemingly peaceful regions are hiding a surprisingly complex magnetic world. Using a balloon-borne telescope high above Earth, scientists discovered delicate, thread-like magnetic structures woven through the solar atmosphere, apparently shaped by twisting motions on the Sun’s surface. They also mapped magnetic fields inside towering jets of solar material, revealing how those fields change with height.
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For kids
Scientists used a special telescope on a balloon, high above Earth, to look at the Sun. They found thin, thread-like magnetic lines in the Sun's air and measured magnetism inside giant jets of hot material. Scientists are still learning how the Sun works, one thread at a time. What would you like to find out about the Sun?
