Can We See This Massive Coronal Hole on the Sun?

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DaveC426913
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I never did get an answer to this, and I suspect the observation window is rapidly closing. :sorry:
 
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DaveC426913 said:
Is it visible like a sunspot might be?

Sorry been away for a few days .... No, coronal holes are not optically visible

DaveC426913 said:
and I suspect the observation window is rapidly closing. :sorry:

dont worry, another is central disk now .....

1702350936229.png
 
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davenn said:
No, coronal holes are not optically visible
Well that's hardly Instgrammable is it?
You must know some astro eggheads. Can you get them on that lickety-split?
 
  • #6
DaveC426913 said:
Well that's hardly Instgrammable is it?
You must know some astro eggheads. Can you get them on that lickety-split?

Coronal holes are only seen at X-ray wavelengths. The best one they are seen at is like that of the
image above, which is 193 Angstroms (19.3 nanometre) wavelength.
Quote ....
"which highlights a spectral line emitted by iron atoms that have lost 11 electrons (also known as
iron-12 or Fe XII) at temperatures of 1,000,000 K"
end quote

1,000,000K is the typical temperature of the Solar Corona. The high temp of the corona was, for
many years, a great mystery as it sits above the much cooler photosphere ( around 6000K), the
visible *""surface"" of the sun, where the sunspots reside.

* we know it isnt a solid surfaceDave
 
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1. What is a coronal hole on the Sun?

A coronal hole is an area on the Sun's corona that appears darker and colder than its surroundings. These regions have lower gas densities and are areas where the Sun's magnetic field opens up into space, allowing solar wind particles to escape at high speeds.

2. Can we see the coronal hole from Earth?

Yes, coronal holes can be observed from Earth, but not with the naked eye. Specialized solar telescopes equipped with appropriate filters are required to view these structures safely. Observatories and space-based telescopes like the Solar Dynamics Observatory (SDO) provide images that can be used to study these phenomena.

3. How does a coronal hole affect Earth?

When a coronal hole is Earth-facing, the fast-moving stream of solar wind particles can interact with Earth's magnetosphere, potentially leading to geomagnetic storms. These storms can disrupt satellite operations, affect radio communications, and sometimes even cause power outages. Additionally, they can enhance auroras, creating spectacular displays at high latitudes.

4. How often do coronal holes occur?

Coronal holes can be observed throughout the solar cycle, but they are more prevalent and stable during the solar minimum—the period when the Sun’s activity is at its lowest. They can last for several solar rotations, which are approximately 27 days each.

5. Is it dangerous to have a coronal hole facing Earth?

While coronal holes themselves are not dangerous, the high-speed solar wind streams they emit can pose risks to our technological infrastructure. However, these effects are generally manageable and primarily concern entities that operate satellites or power grids. For most people, the impact is minimal, though it's an important aspect of space weather to monitor.

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