The following six images of the sun were captured at the same time on January 29, 2017, by GOES-16's Solar Ultraviolet Imager (SUVI) instrument, a telescope that monitors the sun in ultraviolet wavelengths. In doing so, SUVI can compile full-disk solar images around the clock that scientists can use to improve their space weather forecasts.

The SUVI instrument offers six wavelength channels that allow observation of a range of solar phenomena. The following is a breakdown of the six channels and what they /"see./"

The 94Å wavelength allows scientists to observe the location and morphology of solar flares

The 131Å wavelength also allows visualization of the location and morphology of rashes.

The 171Å wavelength helps scientists detect active regions of the Sun and coronal mass ejections (CMEs).

The 195Å wavelength also helps scientists detect active regions of the Sun and CMEs.

The 284Å wavelength allows observation on coronal holes

The 304Å wavelength helps scientists observe solar filaments (i.e. the dark lines strung across the solar disk)

Data from SUVI will provide an estimate of coronal plasma temperatures and emission measurements that are important for space weather prediction. Depending on their size and trajectory, solar flares can affect the near-Earth space environment and in Earth's magnetosphere, causing geomagnetic storms that can disrupt power utilities, communications and navigation systems , and can even cause radiation damage to orbiting satellites and international space. Station.

To learn more about SUVI and its role in monitoring solar conditions, visit goo.gl/fMUH8B.

To see a gallery of GOES-16 images, including more animations, go to goo.gl/4hskL0.

Please note: GOES-16 data is currently experimental and under testing and therefore should not be used operationally.

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