Prominences
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Temporal evolution of quiescent prominence
Dunn Solar Telescope/IBIS
This movie shows the temporal evolution of a quiestcent prominence observed at the solar limb by the Interferometric Bidimensional Spectrograph (IBIS) on 13 August 2010. The images were taken at the center of the H-alpha line and sample material at chromospheric temperatures.
Prominences are structures made of cool chromospheric gas embedded in the million degrees corona. We still do not know how the cool and dense gas remains stable without falling back to lower layers. Scientist believe, however, that the prominence magnetic field provides the necessary support.
Prominences show intricate fine structure and dynamics. In this movie, blobs of plasma can be seen move upward and downward within the prominence. The formation of cavities at the base of the prominence is also very noticeable.
To download the movie, click HERE
Movie credit: Kevin Reardon (INAF-Arcetri, National Solar Observatory/AURA/NSF)
Instrument: IBIS (INAF/NSO/QUB)