Solar spectropolarimetry at high spatial resolution: Quiet-Sun magnetic fields
Abstract
Spectropolarimetry permits quantitative inferences of solar magnetic fields to be carried out. It is in fact the only means at our disposal to characterize the physical properties of small magnetic structures from low spatial-resolution observations. The accuracy of the results derived from spectropolarimetric measurements has improved dramatically with the advent of simultaneous observations in different spectral regions and high angular resolution measurements. The main advantage brought about by high spatial resolution is that there is less need to model complex scenarios involving different fields and/or flows coexisting in the pixel. Currently it is possible to achieve resolutions of 0.3 arcsec from space (with the Hinode satellite) and 0.15 arcsec from the ground (with the 1-m Swedish Solar Telescope). In this talk we will show examples of high spatial resolution spectropolarimetric observations and how they are challenging our understanding of quiet Sun magnetic fields and sunspot penumbrae. In addition, we will describe previously unknown issues that affect diffraction-limited observations. Proper interpretations of the measurements require these effects to be taken into account.
- Publication:
-
European Solar Physics Meeting
- Pub Date:
- September 2008
- Bibcode:
- 2008ESPM...12..2.4B