COOL - Hinode Observes Annular Solar Eclipse

[tabatha]

Click on this link to see a fast video clip:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/gsfc/5332593243

January 6, 2010

Caption: This timelapse video shows Hinode's view of the eclipse.

To see a still image from this event go to: www.flickr.com/photos/gsfc/5333202438

On January 4, the Hinode satellite captured these breathtaking images of an annular solar eclipse. An annular eclipse occurs when the moon, slightly more distant from Earth than on average, moves directly between Earth and the sun, thus appearing slightly smaller to observers' eyes; the effect is a bright ring, or annulus of sunlight, around the silhouette of the moon. Hinode, a Japanese mission in partnership with NASA, NAOJ, STFC, ESA, and NSC, currently in Earth orbit, is studying the Sun to improve our understanding of the mechanisms that power the solar atmosphere and drive solar eruptions.

Hinode, launched in September 2006, uses three advanced optical instruments to further our understanding of the solar atmosphere and turbulent solar eruptions that can impact hardware in orbit and life on Earth.

Image credit: Hinode/XRT

To download this video go here: www.nasa.gov/multimedia/videogallery/index.html?collectio...

NASA Goddard Space Flight Center enables NASA’s mission through four scientific endeavors: Earth Science, Heliophysics, Solar System Exploration, and Astrophysics. Goddard plays a leading role in NASA’s accomplishments by contributing compelling scientific knowledge to advance the Agency’s mission.



Also the still image:

[malaise]

1. Stunningly beautiful

Thanks

[Lucinda]

2. Gorgeous!

TY for the link and pic! :hi: