Can We See This Massive Coronal Hole on the Sun?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the visibility of a massive coronal hole on the Sun, which spans much of its disc. Participants confirm that coronal holes are not optically visible like sunspots; they can only be observed at X-ray wavelengths, particularly at 193 Angstroms (19.3 nanometers). This wavelength highlights a spectral line emitted by iron-12 (Fe XII) at temperatures around 1,000,000 K, characteristic of the Solar Corona. The high temperature of the corona remains a significant topic of interest in solar physics.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of coronal holes in solar physics
  • Knowledge of X-ray wavelengths and their significance in astronomy
  • Familiarity with the temperature scales of solar layers, specifically the Solar Corona and photosphere
  • Basic comprehension of spectral lines and their relation to atomic structure
NEXT STEPS
  • Research X-ray astronomy techniques for observing solar phenomena
  • Learn about the properties and behavior of the Solar Corona
  • Study the significance of iron-12 (Fe XII) in solar observations
  • Explore the historical context of the temperature mystery of the Solar Corona
USEFUL FOR

Astronomers, astrophysicists, and students interested in solar phenomena, particularly those studying coronal structures and their implications for solar activity.

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I never did get an answer to this, and I suspect the observation window is rapidly closing. :sorry:
 
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?
 
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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