Flux Ropes on the Sun
This
is an image of magnetic loops on the sun, captured by NASA's Solar
Dynamics Observatory (SDO). It has been processed to highlight the edges
of each loop to make the structure more clear.
A series of loops
such as this is known as a flux rope, and these lie at the heart of
eruptions on the sun known as coronal mass ejections (CMEs.) This is the
first time scientists were able to discern the timing of a flux rope's
formation. (Blended 131 Angstrom and 171 Angstrom images of July 19,
2012 flare and CME.)
Image Credit: NASA/Goddard Space Flight Center/SDO
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