We have completed maintenance on DiscoverMagazine.com and action may be required on your account. Learn More

The Sun Has Thin Threads of Million-Degree Plasma, According to New Images

Thanks to the highest-resolution photos ever taken of the sun, researchers have spotted previously invisible filaments of scorching-hot plasma threaded through the sun's atmosphere.

By Alison Klesman
Apr 16, 2020 3:50 PMApr 17, 2020 7:48 PM
Sun Filaments - University of Central Lancashire
New images show delicate magnetic field lines, haloed by scalding plasma, sprouting from seemingly featureless regions of the Sun. (Credit: University of Central Lancashire)

Newsletter

Sign up for our email newsletter for the latest science news
 

The sun’s magnetic field constantly blasts particles from its surface into space. On Earth, we experience this steady stream of charged particles as the regular solar wind, which fuels aurorae. But our planet also must deal with the occasional fallout from strong outbursts during particularly powerful solar storms. However, for all of the downstream effects Earth experiences thanks to the sun’s magnetic field, the true nature of this enigmatic field remains one of sun’s most elusive mysteries.

0 free articles left
Want More? Get unlimited access for as low as $1.99/month

Already a subscriber?

Register or Log In

0 free articlesSubscribe
Discover Magazine Logo
Want more?

Keep reading for as low as $1.99!

Subscribe

Already a subscriber?

Register or Log In

Stay Curious

Sign up for our weekly newsletter and unlock one more article for free.

 

View our Privacy Policy


Want more?
Keep reading for as low as $1.99!


Log In or Register

Already a subscriber?
Find my Subscription

More From Discover
Recommendations From Our Store
Shop Now
Stay Curious
Join
Our List

Sign up for our weekly science updates.

 
Subscribe
To The Magazine

Save up to 40% off the cover price when you subscribe to Discover magazine.

Copyright © 2024 Kalmbach Media Co.