Fine-scale dynamics of solar prominences

Hinode Broadband Filter Imager

Prominence at the solar limb observed with the Broadband Filter Imager (BFI) aboard the Hinode satellite on January 3, 2007. The measurements were performed in the Ca II H spectral line, to sample the chromosphere. The solar disk is overexposed to reveal the weak prominence signal.

Prominences are chromospheric structures made of relatively cool gas embedded in the hot solar corona. They evolve slowly and are the place where several types of instabilities can occur. This movie shows the intricate detail and dynamics of the fine structure of prominences. Blobs of plasma can be observed moving downward and upward within the prominence, revealing a highly dynamic environment. Also, large dark cavities form and disappear at the base of the prominence. We still do not know how promimences are suspended in the solar corona, but the magnetic field is believed to play an important role.

To download the movie, click HERE

Movie credit: Joten Okamoto (NAOJ/JAXA)

Text credit:  Luis Bellot Rubio (IAA-CSIC)

Observations: Hinode (ISAS/JAXA, NAOJ, NASA, STFC, ESA)

Source: Joten Okamoto's Solar Gallery