Aditya-L1 VELC Spots a Flareless Coronal Mass Ejection
Why in the news
Indian researchers recorded an eruption from the Sun that occurred without any flare, hinting at other routes for such events.
Key facts
- Seen by the Indian Institute of Astrophysics through the Visible Emission Line Coronagraph (VELC); date 5 July 2024.
- VELC watches the corona closer and faster than earlier coronagraphs, tracking CME origins near the solar limb.
- Results are due in the Astrophysical Journal.
Flare vs CME
| Feature | Flare | CME |
|---|---|---|
| Cause | Magnetic reconnection | Plasma eruption of about a trillion kg |
| Output | Electromagnetic radiation | Speeds up to 3,000 km/s |
Significance
- Helps separate magnetic instabilities behind flares and CMEs; their link is still unclear.
- CME activity should rise as the Sun nears the Solar Cycle 25 peak.
Exam angle
- Instrument: VELC; mission: Aditya-L1.