Indian Institute of Astrophysics to Study Sunspot’s Magnetic Field

Syllabus: GS 3 / Space 

In News 

• Researchers investigated the magnetic field at different layers of the solar atmosphere using data from the Kodaikanal Tower Tunnel Telescope.

About the study 

• The IIA’s approach involves probing the solar magnetic field at various atmospheric heights, an essential endeavor for understanding fundamental solar processes.
  • The solar atmosphere is composed of various layers connected through magnetic fields.
  • These magnetic fields are responsible for transferring energy and mass from the inner layers to the outer layers. 
  • The magnetic field is the prime driver of the solar wind.
• Data Collection: Researchers use Hydrogen-alpha and Calcium II 8662 Å spectral lines to analyze the magnetic field at different solar atmosphere heights.
• Findings: The Hα line is less sensitive to local temperature fluctuations, making it effective for probing the chromospheric magnetic field, especially in active regions with sudden temperature changes.

Impact 

• The findings from IIA’s research have the potential to transform our understanding of solar physics. 
• By addressing the complexities of solar magnetic fields, the institute contributes to broader efforts to solve long standing questions about solar energy transfer and solar wind dynamics. 
• This research is crucial for tackling the coronal heating problem and understanding the mechanisms driving solar wind.

Future outlook 

• The Indian Institute of Astrophysics continues to lead the way in solar research, with its innovative techniques and cutting-edge technology paving the way for groundbreaking discoveries in astrophysics.
• Future studies will likely build on these advancements, offering deeper insights into the sun’s behavior and its effects on space weather.

Source : PIB