|
This image shows what is known as a 'white light' image of the Sun. It was taken with the solar scope on 12 December 2007.
Here, the solar telescope shows the Sun as it would appear if we could see all of its colours. On the surface you will be
able to make out some dark spots, these are called Sun spots. Sun spots are areas that are actually colder regions on the
Sun's surface and are therefore darker, however they would still outshine the full moon if placed in the night sky.
The inset at the top left shows a magnification of the Sun spot, and compares it to the size of the Earth.
This picture also shows the grainy structure of the Sun’s surface, which is caused by granulation. These grainy areas are
regions of the Sun that are bubbling up and down, similar to water that is boiling in a saucepan.
|
