Researchers discover a mysterious, new type of wave in the Sun whose speed defies explanation
Researchers from NYU Abu Dhabi's Center for Space Science have discovered a new set of waves in the Sun that, unexpectedly, appear to travel much faster than predicted by theory.In the study,"Discovery of high-frequency-retrograde vorticity waves in the Sun," published in the journal, the researchers -- led by Research Associate Chris S. Hanson -- detailed how they analyzed 25 years of space and ground-based data to detect these waves.
The interior of the Sun and stars cannot be imaged by conventional astronomy , and scientists rely on interpreting the surface signatures of a variety of waves to image the interiors. These new HFR waves may yet be an important puzzle piece in our understanding of stars. Complex interactions between other well known waves and magnetism, gravity or convection could drive the HFR waves at this speed."If the HFR waves could be attributed to any of these three processes, then the finding would have answered some open questions we still have about the Sun," said Hanson."However, these new waves don't appear to be a result of these processes, and that's exciting because it leads to a whole new set of questions.
This research was conducted within NYUAD's Center for Space Science in collaboration with the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research and New York University, using NYUAD and TIFR's computational resources. By studying the Sun's interior dynamics -- through the use of waves -- scientists can better appreciate the Sun's potential impact on the Earth and other planets in our solar system.
"The very existence of HFR modes and their origin is a true mystery and may allude to exciting physics at play," said Shravan Hanasoge, a co-author of the paper."It has the potential to shed insight on the otherwise unobservable interior of the Sun."
Ireland Latest News, Ireland Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
The sun let out another flare and the photos are stunningNASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory photographs the sun with 10 times the resolution of high-definition television.
Read more »
D.C.-area forecast: Some sun with a gusty wind; rain likely TuesdayWinds crank up late this morning and especially this afternoon, when gusts could be in the 30 to 40 mph range.
Read more »
It’s Finally Ben Franklin’s Time in the SunThe Founding Father most suited to our online times.
Read more »
'We were a little surprised how effective it was': UBC researcher on new potential COVID treatmentICYMI: Canadian researchers have developed a nasal spray that prevents and treats infection of the Delta variant - via healthing_ca .UBC healthing health COVID19
Read more »
Get to Know the Best New Artist Nominees at the 2022 Grammys - E! OnlineNew year, new artists! Meet the phenomenal nominees for Best New Artist at the 2022 Grammys that are currently making major waves in music.
Read more »