NASA has released new 3D images of the sun from its Solar Terrestrial Relations Observatory (STEREO).
For the first time, scientists will be able to see structures in the sun's atmosphere in three dimensions. The new view will improve space weather forecasting and greatly aid scientists’ ability to understand solar physics.
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Source: Goddard Space Flight Center (3D glasses needed for full effect) |
The two nearly identical observatories – one ahead of Earth in its orbit, the other trailing behind – will trace the flow of energy and matter from the sun to Earth. They will reveal the 3D structure of coronal mass ejections – violent eruptions of matter from the sun that can disrupt satellites and power grids – and help us understand why they happen.
STEREO will provide more accurate alerts for the arrival time of Earth-directed solar ejections with its unique side-viewing perspective.
Source: FlightGlobal.com
