First magnetic phenomenon observed on the Sun

[colin456]

I am currently doing a bit of research into the history of our understanding of the solar magnetic field. It is quite interesting.

As I understand it, sunspots, which were observed at least as early as the time of Aristotle, were the first solar magnetic phenomenon to be observed. Can anybody confirm this, or suggest an alternative?

Thanks

 

[Bobbywhy]

Yes, sunspots are magnetic disturbances visible from here on earth. For you to continue your research into the history of our understanding of the sun's magnetic field I offer these websites:

http://helios.gsfc.nasa.gov/solarmag.html
http://science.nasa.gov/science-news/science-at-nasa/2001/ast15feb_1/
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stellar_magnetic_field
http://solar.physics.montana.edu/ypop/Spotlight/Magnetic/

If you have any doubts or questions do return here and post them. Physics Forums exists to support learning science just as you are doing. Good Luck.