X-ray observations, scaling laws and magnetic fields
Abstract
Sounding-rocket, satellite, and Skylab X-ray observations of the sun, obtained at high spatial resolution using grazing-incidence-telescopes during the period 1963-1975, are reviewed, with an emphasis on their astrophysical implications. The history of the observation programs is discussed; sample images and tables of numerical data are presented; and it is shown how the X-ray data revealed the magnetic confinement of the hot coronal plasma and permitted the formulation of scaling laws, which relate the loop length to the maximum plasma temperature and pressure at the base of the corona and account for gravitational effects and magnetic-field heating. More recent Einstein Observatory, Exosat, and Rosat X-ray observations of stellar coronae are briefly described, and the applicability of the solar coronal-loop models to late-type stars is considered.
- Publication:
-
Memorie della Societa Astronomica Italiana
- Pub Date:
- 1990
- Bibcode:
- 1990MmSAI..61..401P
- Keywords:
-
- Coronal Loops;
- Grist (Telescope);
- Scaling Laws;
- Solar Corona;
- Solar Magnetic Field;
- X Ray Telescopes;
- High Temperature Plasmas;
- Rocket-Borne Instruments;
- Skylab Program;
- Solar Physics