NASA and ESA Document Historic 19-Day Solar Radio Burst
NASA and ESA Track Record-Breaking 19-Day Solar Radio Burst

Image: Discover Magazine
NASA and ESA tracked a remarkable 19-day Type IV solar radio burst, the longest of its kind recorded. This unusual signal, which reappeared multiple times as the sun rotated, was sustained by a magnetic structure near the sun, potentially providing insights into solar activity and its effects on space communications.
- 01The 19-day solar radio burst surpassed the previous record of five days, marking a significant finding in solar research.
- 02Three coronal mass ejections contributed to the longevity of the burst by supplying fresh particles to the magnetic structure.
- 03The signal pulsed every 45 to 60 minutes, likely due to magnetic waves within the structure.
- 04NASA missions involved included Parker Solar Probe, Wind, and STEREO, along with the ESA-NASA Solar Orbiter.
- 05The study introduced a new method for estimating the origins of solar radio bursts from a single spacecraft.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
In a groundbreaking discovery, NASA and the European Space Agency (ESA) tracked a 19-day Type IV solar radio burst, the longest ever recorded. Unlike typical bursts that fade quickly, this signal repeatedly returned as the sun rotated, observed by multiple spacecraft including the Parker Solar Probe and the Solar Orbiter. Researchers believe that the burst's longevity was due to its proximity to a helmet streamer, a magnetic structure that may have trapped energetic particles. During this period, three coronal mass ejections erupted from the sun, likely replenishing the particle supply necessary for the burst's persistence. The signal pulsed every 45 to 60 minutes, indicating dynamic magnetic activity within the structure. This event, documented in The Astrophysical Journal Letters, highlights the need for further research into solar phenomena, especially as the sun enters a more active phase of its 11-year solar cycle. Understanding such long-duration bursts could enhance our ability to monitor solar activity and its potential impacts on satellite communications and space missions.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
Reader Poll
How important do you think solar research is for understanding space weather?
Connecting to poll...
More about NASA
Read the original article
Visit the source for the complete story.







