Physicists Trace Sun's Magnetic Engine, 200k Kilometers Below Surface

7 hours ago

NJIT physicists have traced the Sun's magnetic engine to about 200,000 kilometers below its surface.
The solar dynamo, responsible for the Sun's 11-year cycles and solar eruptions, operates deep within the Sun.
Sunspots, which indicate intense magnetic activity, migrate in a butterfly-shaped pattern before the cycle resets.
Researchers analyzed nearly 30 years of solar oscillation data from instruments like SOHO, SDO, and GONG.
The study revealed a critical transition layer called the tachocline, where the Sun's rotation changes abruptly.
The tachocline's powerful shearing flows are believed to generate the Sun's magnetic fields.
Findings could improve solar activity forecasts and space weather prediction models.
The research may also help understand magnetic cycles in other stars across the galaxy.
The study was supported by NASA funding and involved collaboration with multiple institutions.

Hasty Briefsbeta