Acoustic Holography of the Solar Convection Zone with GONG Data

Northwest Research Associates, Incorporated, Seattle WA

Investigators

Abstract

ABSTRACT Braun, Douglas "Acoustic Holography of the Solar Convection Zone with GONG Data" AST-9987286 In this research the principles of seismic holography are being used to develop a method of characterizing and imaging the acoustic properties of solar active regions. Using observations collected by the Global Oscillations Network Group (GONG) a broad seismic survey of the Sun will be conducted in order to catalog phase-contrast images of sunspots, plages, large active region complexes and pores. From this a general model of so-called 'acoustic moats' will be devised in order to determine their thermal and convective properties, and the role such phenomena play in the transport of heat in and around sunspots. Using the long-wavelength modes of oscillation, the method will be further applied to deep imaging of the solar interior. Extension of this technique to imaging the solar farside surface may provide the basis for an important new 'space weather' early warning system. Large solar outbursts, or flares, may cause serious damage to spacecraft, communications systems and electric power grids on Earth. Far side images of the Sun may identify potentially dangerous conditions a week or more in advance. Funding for this project was provided by the NSF program for Stellar Astronomy & Astrophysics (AST/SAA).