Science
Sun's Chromosphere Explained
Discover the Sun's chromosphere, the dynamic atmospheric layer above its visible surface. Learn why this source of solar flares is a hot topic.
What is it?
The chromosphere is the second layer of the Sun's atmosphere, situated between the photosphere and the corona. This reddish, glowing layer is typically invisible against the brighter surface below, but during a total solar eclipse, it flashes into view as a vibrant red ring. Its name, from the Greek "chroma" for color, comes from strong hydrogen-alpha light emissions. The chromosphere is a scientific puzzle because its temperature increases with altitude, rising from about 6,000°C to over 20,000°C, defying simple models of heat transfer from the Sun's core.
Why is it trending?
The chromosphere is a hot topic due to heightened solar activity as we near the solar maximum. This dynamic layer is the source of dramatic events like solar flares and prominences. Advanced observatories, like the Daniel K. Inouye Solar Telescope, provide unprecedented high-resolution images, helping scientists understand the complex magnetic fields that drive these explosive phenomena. These new insights are crucial for demystifying the volatile nature of our star and the processes that heat its outer atmosphere to millions of degrees.
How does it affect people?
Events in the chromosphere are central to space weather, which directly impacts our technology. Solar flares and coronal mass ejections (CMEs) erupting from this region send charged particles toward Earth. This solar storm can disrupt satellite communications, damage GPS systems, and overload power grids, causing blackouts. By studying the chromosphere, scientists improve space weather forecasting, providing crucial early warnings to protect our vital infrastructure on Earth and our assets, including astronauts, in space.