An eruptive solar prominence July 11-12, 2009

An eruptive solar prominence broke away from the Sun's surface over a several hour period (July 11-12, 2009) as the STEREO (Behind) spacecraft observed. Prominences are dynamic clouds of cooler gas embedded in the Sun's hot outer atmosphere and sustained by magnetic fields. Sometimes, the magnetic field changes in a way that propels the prominence material off into space. Amateur astronomers can and have seen these events if they are looking at the right time.

Category:

Science & Technology

Tags:

• solar flare
• sunspot
• eletromagnetic radiation