Solar Model Visuals & Multimedia Gallery
May 28, 2007 - by Staff
Multimedia Gallery
The images on this page are drawn from a new computer model, developed by researchers at NCAR and other institutions, that simulates convection patterns in the deep interior of the Sun in unprecedented detail. The patterns, known as giant cells, play a critical role in solar variability, influencing magnetic storms that take aim at Earth.
A. Giant cells
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Giant cell convection patterns beneath the surface of the Sun, as revealed by the new model. (©UCAR, image by Mark Miesch, NCAR.) News media terms of use*
B. Differential rotation
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The solar equator spins around in 28 days (pink/red) while the poles take 35 days (blue/black). The model simulates this differential rotation. (©UCAR, image by Mark Miesch, NCAR.) News media terms of use*
C. Solar turbulence
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A close-up look at turbulence inside the Sun. (Visualization by Chris Henze, NASA.)
D. Convection zone
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Turbulent areas beneath the solar surface seeth with vorticity. The new model simulates spinning columns, sheets, and rings of plasma scattered throughout the convection zone. (©UCAR, image by Mark Miesch, NCAR©UCAR.) News media terms of use*
E. Convection patterns
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Convection patterns in the Sun shown as a map projection that includes all 360 degrees of longitude
and extends from the north pole to the south pole. (©UCAR, image by Mark Miesch, NCAR.) News media terms of use*
F. NCAR scientist Mark Miesch.
Click here or on the image to enlarge. (©UCAR, photo by Carlye Calvin©UCAR.) News media terms of use*