SUN - Sun OVERVIEW

Sun

Introduction

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The Sun provides heat, energy, and is the basis for life formation here on Earth. It is no wonder astronomers continue to study the Sun. In this module of your astronaut training, you will learn about the Sun's contributions to our solar system and our Earth. You will also learn about features of the Sun.

Essential Questions

  • Why is the Sun a typical star?
  • How has today's technology led to new understandings of solar phenomena?
  • What are sunspots?

Key Terms

Chromosphere - a dim layer of less dense stellar gas above the photosphere

Corona - the outermost region of the Sun's atmosphere

Granules - lighter portions of the Sun's surface

Photosphere - the visible layer of the Sun

Plasma - a mixture of electrically-charged ions and electrons

Solar Cycle - the time it takes for the magnetic field to return to the same orientation

Solar Wind - outflowing gas from the Sun

Sunspots - the dark region on the surface of the Sun

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