Solar Maximum , Could Reveal Secrets of the , Sun.
'The Independent' reports that an upcoming period
of increased solar activity could help scientists
understand some lingering uncertainties about the Sun.
The imminent "solar maximum" means that
our star is currently spewing gamma rays,
the highest energy form of light.
Gamma ray numbers are far higher
than scientists ever expected. .
The intense stream of energetic solar emissions
offers scientists a better understanding of
gamma rays, including where they come from.
We have found results
that challenge our current
understanding of the Sun
and its environment, Elena Orlando, co-author of the study from the University of
Trieste, INFN, and Stanford University, via 'The Independent'.
We demonstrated a strong correlation of
the asymmetry in the solar gamma-ray
emission in coincidence with the solar
magnetic field flip, which has revealed
a possible link among solar astronomy,
particle physics, and plasma physics, Elena Orlando, co-author of the study from the University of
Trieste, INFN, and Stanford University, via 'The Independent'.
We demonstrated a strong correlation of
the asymmetry in the solar gamma-ray
emission in coincidence with the solar
magnetic field flip, which has revealed
a possible link among solar astronomy,
particle physics, and plasma physics, Elena Orlando, co-author of the study from the University of
Trieste, INFN, and Stanford University, via 'The Independent'.
Currently, leading theories include that
gamma rays are connected to solar flares
and coronal mass ejections or potentially linked
to changes in the Sun's magnetic configuration.
'The Independent' reports that a better
understanding could improve the physics
models used to predict solar activity. .
Those models are used to make
predictions that protect vital
instruments in orbit around the planet. .
Scientists have warned that increased solar
activity has the potential to cause significant
damage to Earth's technology and infrastructure. .
The team's findings were described in an article
published by 'The Astrophysical Journal.'