Universe Today Podcast [Space Bites] Sun’s Pole Revealed // Sun Shade vs Climate Change // Source of Cosmic Rays
Jun 13, 2025
Discover the exciting implications of recent findings on the source of ultra-high energy cosmic rays linked to the Sun's south pole. Tune in for a first look at the polar region of the Sun, and the challenges Blue Origin faces with its New Glenn rocket's launch delays. The conversation shifts to the environmental impact of rocket launches on the ozone layer and explores innovative ideas like a planetary sunshade to combat climate change. Plus, dive into the mysteries of star formation in the Milky Way and the wonders of colliding galaxies.
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Pulsar Winds Produce Cosmic Rays
- Ultra-high energy cosmic rays can originate from pulsar winds colliding with nebula material around pulsars.
- This interaction energizes particles, potentially explaining the source of the most powerful cosmic rays detected.
Solar Orbiter Reveals Sun’s Poles
- We have never seen the Sun's poles directly until recently, limiting understanding of polar solar activity.
- The Solar Orbiter spacecraft is providing the first images of the Sun’s poles, helping to study magnetic pole flips.
Solar Telescope Reveals Magnetic Striations
- The Daniel K. Inouye Solar Telescope reveals tiny magnetic field patterns on the Sun’s surface.
- Understanding these striations helps explain solar wind dynamics and the corona's extreme temperature.