Astronomers have for the first time concentrated on small plasma loops within a significant solar flare, potentially revealing the essential components of the sun’s intense storms. The images obtained using the new Daniel K. Inouye Solar Telescope in Hawaii display arcs of hot gas measuring just 10 to 30 miles in width that align with the sun’s magnetic fields. Previous instruments were only able to resolve loops that were 60 to 100 miles wide. Inouye’s imagery is more than 2.5 times clearer.
Researchers think these “coronal loops” could represent the most fundamental elements of solar flares — sudden bursts of energy that release radiation into space and toward Earth. This revelation gives new perspective on how our star generates flares. Such knowledge may improve space weather predictions, possibly averting future solar storms that could disrupt satellites, power grids, and radio signals.
“Understanding that a telescope can theoretically achieve something is one aspect,” stated Maria Kazachenko, a co-author of the study. “Observing it operate at that precision is thrilling.”
The solar observatory is located atop the dormant Haleakalā volcano, which rises 10,000 feet above sea level in Maui. The summit provides unique environmental conditions that enhance astronomers’ ability to observe the sun’s corona, the outermost part of its atmosphere.
In the research published in The Astrophysical Journal Letters, the team analyzed 686 loops. They discovered that the widths of the loops generally remained consistent in thickness rather than presenting a random assortment. This indicates that the telescope might finally be detecting the smallest components of a solar flare.
Captured in August 2024 during an X-class flare, the images illustrate dark, threadlike arches ascending above luminous flare ribbons. Scientists have long theorized that solar flares consist of numerous tiny magnetic loops. However, until now, these loops were unseen, and researchers could only speculate about their existence.
If the team has indeed identified the fundamental elements of a solar flare — as opposed to merely larger groups of loops — it marks a significant advancement for solar storm predictors, according to Cole Tamburri, the lead author of the paper. The information that could arise from a more detailed examination of these loops might enhance computer models for forecasting space weather.
“It’s akin to transitioning from viewing a forest to suddenly recognizing every individual tree,” Tamburri remarked.
Similar to how Earth experiences seasons, the sun undergoes an 11-year activity cycle. It remains least active at the beginning and conclusion of this cycle, but becomes increasingly volatile in the middle, leading to powerful eruptions.
That peak recently occurred, with solar activity reaching its zenith around October 2024. Consequently, solar flares and significant plasma ejections from the corona have been making headlines more frequently.
Even at a distance of 93 million miles, the sun’s eruptions can influence Earth and the broader solar system. The planet’s atmosphere and magnetic field protect humanity from the most harmful radiation; however, these occurrences can still have devastating effects on life on Earth, disrupting telecommunications, navigation systems, and other vital technologies.
Such events are infrequent but unforgettable. For instance, in March 1989, a significant flare caused a power outage across Quebec, Canada, lasting 12 hours and even interrupting Radio Free Europe broadcasts.