Random article ( of 1108 ) Latest updates

User Tools

Site Tools


content / physics / cosmology / solar_spicules

Wikenigma - an Encyclopedia of Unknowns Wikenigma - an Encyclopedia of the Unknown

Solar spicules

Spicules comprise one of the most fundamental components of the solar chromosphere. They appear to be jets of gas seen at the limb of the Sun in chromospheric spectral lines, and have been observed in Hα and other chromospheric spectral lines for over 100 years. They have an upward mass flux 100 times that of the solar wind, and therefore are an important consideration in the mass balance of the solar atmosphere.

Source : NASA Open Access

It's estimated that there are around 3 million spicules on the Sun's surface at any given time. They tend to be several thousand kilometers long, and last for 15 minutes or so.

Since their discovery in the late 1800s, there have been many attempts at explaining their origin and structure. At present, there are at least six prominent theories - none of which has been generally accepted (see paper linked above).

THIS WEBSITE DOES NOT USE TRACKING, ADVERTISING, OR ANALYTICAL COOKIES OF ANY KIND.
All essential cookies (for login status etc) are automatically deleted at the end of the session.
(full details here)

Show another (random) article

Suggestions for corrections and ideas for articles are welcomed : Get in touch!


Further resources :