This prestigious award recognizes a mid-career scientist who has made significant and transformative contributions to the field of solar physics.

Like the Earth, the Sun likely has swirling polar vortices, according to new research led by the U.S. National Science Foundation National Center for Atmospheric Research (NSF NCAR). But unlike on Earth, the formation and evolution of these vortices are driven by magnetic fields.

For the first time, scientists have taken near-daily measurements of the Sun’s global coronal magnetic field, a region of the Sun that has only been observed irregularly in the past. The resulting observations are providing valuable insights into the processes that drive the intense solar storms that impact fundamental technologies, and thus lives and livelihoods, here on Earth.

As the April 8, 2024 total eclipse approaches, scientists and staff with the U.S. National Science Foundation National Center for Atmospheric Research (NSF NCAR) are preparing a variety of experiments and outreach projects to further our knowledge of the Sun and engage various communities in observing and understanding this extraordinary and rare event.

Eclipse experts are available to discuss eclipses, why eclipses are important for studying the Sun, and what research NSF NCAR is participating in during the April 8, 2024 eclipse.