ISRO’s Aditya-L1 mission captures first-ever image of a solar flare ‘kernel’
(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 3)
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Topic: GS3 – Science and Technology |
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Context |
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First-Ever Image of Solar Flare Kernel:
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India’s first space-based solar mission, Aditya-L1, has made a significant breakthrough by capturing the first-ever image of a solar flare ‘kernel.’
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The Solar Ultraviolet Imaging Telescope (SUIT) payload recorded this image in the Sun’s lower atmosphere, specifically in the photosphere and chromosphere.
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On February 22, SUIT observed an X6.3-class solar flare, one of the most intense solar eruptions, in the Near Ultraviolet wavelength (200-400 nm), marking a first in solar observations.
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What is a Solar Flare ‘Kernel’? |
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Scientific Significance of the Discovery
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This discovery confirms that flare energy spreads across different solar layers and influences plasma temperature in the corona.
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The study also revealed that localized brightening in the lower atmosphere corresponds to an increase in plasma temperature in the corona.
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This confirms the link between flare energy deposition and temperature evolution, providing crucial insights into the physics of solar flares.
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Aditya-L1 Mission: Key Information |
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Practice Question: How does the Aditya-L1 mission contribute to the understanding of solar activity and its impact on space weather? Explain its significance for India’s space research. (250 Words /15 marks) |
