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A remarkable phenomenon has been documented as a massive spiral of plasma extends millions of kilometers into space from the Sun. This extraordinary video, captured by the European Space Agency’s Solar Orbiter, spans an eight-hour observation period on October 12, 2022. Triggered by a coronal mass ejection, this plasma formation is characterized by a swirling pattern within the solar wind, presenting a unique spectacle that scientists had not previously encountered. Bright streaks, appearing as pixelated lines that could be mistaken for unidentified flying objects (UFOs), were also noted in the footage. However, researchers clarified that these streaks were actually distant stars, made visible owing to specific imaging techniques.
Study Identifies Plasma Formation as a Pseudostreamer
A recent study featured in The Astrophysical Journal has identified this significant structure as a large pseudostreamer, which emerged near the Sun’s north pole following a solar flare. The report detailed that this plasma reached an impressive size of 1.5 times the diameter of the Sun and remained visible for approximately three hours. Researchers believe the twisting motion of the plasma could be attributed to Alfvénic fluctuations, phenomena that occur when waves of charged particles react to magnetic disturbances. The distinctive shape of the pseudostreamer is influenced by its position, given that the magnetic fields at the Sun’s poles are stronger than those near its equator.
Unusual Streaks Explained
The footage provided by the Solar Orbiter also displayed bright, semi-dark lines traversing the screen, exhibiting a movement reminiscent of retro arcade graphics. The European Space Agency confirmed that these visual anomalies were in fact distant stars. The technique used to edit the video produced this effect, causing the stars to appear as streaks instead of discrete points of light. The movement of the Solar Orbiter against the starry background played a crucial role in creating this visual impression.
Solar Activity Expected to Intensify
Currently, the Sun is undergoing a phase known as solar maximum, which is characterized by heightened solar activity, including increased flares and solar winds. This pseudostreamer appeared earlier than anticipated before reaching this peak. Scientists have expressed their surprise at its premature emergence. As ESA’s Solar Orbiter continues to generate detailed images of solar wind phenomena, further studies are being conducted with NASA’s Parker Solar Probe and ESA’s Proba-3 mission. Experts predict that more significant solar winds are on the horizon in the coming years.
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