The Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) has announced a notable discovery regarding the Sun, specifically in its outer atmosphere, known as the corona. Researchers have successfully measured extremely weak magnetic fields within this layer using a radio telescope system that was entirely designed and constructed in India. This advancement could enhance scientific understanding of the mechanisms behind solar eruptions, which can disrupt satellites, communication networks, and power grids on Earth.

Challenges in Measuring Solar Magnetic Fields

Understanding the corona has been challenging due to its distance of approximately 150 million kilometres from Earth and the faintness of the magnetic fields involved. The Gauribidanur Observatory, situated about 100 kilometres north of Bengaluru, has developed innovative methods to detect these weak fields. By employing a sensitive radio telescope assembled using locally sourced materials, the researchers were able to study the radio waves emitted by the Sun without needing additional external resources.

As the radio waves traverse regions influenced by magnetic fields, they experience slight alterations, akin to small twists. By accurately measuring these changes, the team could assess the intensity of the magnetic fields in the corona. These measurements represent the first direct observations of their kind, marking a significant achievement in solar research.

According to Shaik Sayuf, a PhD student at IIA and principal author of the study, the measured magnetic fields are less than one-thousandth of a Tesla. This unit is commonly used to quantify magnetic field strength, signifying that the fields detected are comparable in strength to those created by basic bar magnets found in school science experiments.

Implications for Solar Research

Dr C Kathiravan, Sayuf’s supervisor, remarked on the remarkable potential of such weak magnetic fields to trigger intense solar eruptions, which can impact satellite operations and Earth’s atmospheric conditions. Furthermore, Dr R Ramesh, a Senior Professor and head of radio astronomy activities at Gauribidanur, noted that these weak fields are substantially weaker than those used in everyday devices, such as bicycle dynamo lights. He emphasised the difficulty of replicating these measurements with most existing telescopes, whether terrestrial or orbital.

This breakthrough not only deepens understanding of the Sun but also signifies India’s increasing influence in the field of radio astronomy. The Gauribidanur Observatory serves as an invaluable training ground for students and contributes to the development of new scientific instruments at a fraction of the cost associated with larger international facilities.

The findings pertaining to these magnetic fields are anticipated to be published in The Astrophysical Journal, a prestigious international scientific publication, further cementing the significance of this research. Researchers are optimistic that these insights will facilitate enhanced forecasts of space weather events that may influence terrestrial systems.

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