The Smithsonian and NASA are hosting a seminar about the sun in Washington, D.C. on June 17
The Sun and Earth engage in an intricate dance, creating and supporting life as we know it. In recent years scientists have learned much through solar observatories and satellite missions, allowing a greater understanding of our favorite star. They are learning why, for instance, the corona, or outermost layer of hot plasma, is so much hotter than the visible surface. In this seminar, solar scientists share up-to-the-minute discoveries about the Sun. They explain the dynamic processes from the inner core out through the corona, how solar storms, flares, and sunspots affect us here on Earth, and why the ethereal aurora borealis occurs. The day concludes with a special viewing of the 42-minute DVD film, SOLARMAX.
Schedule:
10 to 11:15 a.m. What Have We Learned about the Sun? Highlights from NASA’s solar research, featuring images and video clips from the Solar and Heliospheric Observation (SOHO) mission, and others. Alex Young, research scientist, SOHO mission.
11:30 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. The Mysterious Aurora Borealis. Solar particles captured by Earth’s magnetic field are guided to the magnetic poles, creating this light phenomenon. Paal Brekke, senior advisor, Norwegian Space Center, Oslo.
12:45 to 2:15 p.m. Lunch Participants provide their own lunch.
2:15 to 3 p.m. Solar Research on the Horizon. Upcoming missions and the solar secrets they hope to uncover. Richard Fisher, director, Heliophysics Division, Science Mission Directorate, NASA Headquarters.
3:15 to 4 p.m. SOLARMAX Film. A special showing of SOLARMAX. Steele Hill, SOHO media specialist, moderates. His new book, The Sun (Abrams) is available for signing at the lunch break.
Resident Members $75; Senior Members $68; Gen. Admission $121; Full-time students with IDs $50
Where: TBD
When: June 17th, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
More info: Call the Smithsonian on 202-633-1000