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A recent study by astronomers from the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) has provided precise estimations of the thermal and magnetic field structures of solar coronal holes. These dark regions, visible in X-ray and extreme ultraviolet images of the Sun, feature open magnetic field lines and play a crucial role in influencing space weather phenomena that can impact satellites and even the Indian summer monsoon rainfall.

 

The research focused on analyzing near-equatorial coronal holes using data from 2001 to 2008. Findings indicate that variations in average area, photon flux, radiative energy, and temperature of these coronal holes are independent of latitude. However, the strength of their magnetic field structures varies with latitude, being weaker near the equator and stronger near the poles. On average, the magnetic field strength at the corona is approximately 0.08 ± 0.02 Gauss.

 

Understanding the characteristics of coronal holes is essential, as they significantly affect the interplanetary medium and space weather conditions. Insights from this study contribute to a deeper comprehension of solar-terrestrial interactions and their potential impacts on Earth’s environment.

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