For the first time, images of the Sun's south pole have been captured by a space probe. This unique perspective provides scientists with valuable data about our star.
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European Space Agency's Solar Orbiter probe achieved this feat by tilting its orbit 17 degrees below the solar equator. The images, taken on March 23, reveal never-before-seen details, particularly about the magnetic field and solar winds.
The Solar Orbiter probe has captured historic images of the Sun's south pole.
Credit: ESA & NASA/Solar Orbiter/EUI Team, D. Berghmans (ROB)
The probe's instruments recorded data in various wavelengths, including visible and ultraviolet light. This information helps study the structure of the Sun's magnetic field and the dynamics of chemical elements in solar winds.
One of the instruments, the Polarimetric and Helioseismic Imager (PHI), provided detailed magnetic maps. These maps show an unusual distribution of magnetic polarities at the south pole, indicating an upcoming reversal of the Sun's magnetic field.
This reversal, which occurs approximately every 11 years, marks the transition between solar maximum and minimum. Future observations by Solar Orbiter, with even steeper tilt angles, promise to deepen our understanding of these phenomena.
A composite image of the Sun in eight different wavelengths, revealing various layers and temperatures of its atmosphere.
Credit: ESA & NASA/Solar Orbiter/PHI, EUI and SPICE Teams What is the solar cycle and why does it last 11 years?
The solar cycle is a period of about 11 years during which the Sun's activity varies. This activity is measured by the number of sunspots and solar flares.
The cycle begins with a solar minimum, when activity is low, then reaches a maximum before returning to a minimum. The reversal of the Sun's magnetic field marks the halfway point of the cycle.
The 11-year duration is due to dynamic processes inside the Sun. These processes affect the generation and distribution of the Sun's magnetic field.