Solar eclipse during IYA2009 may unveil cosmic secrets

15 June 2009

Solar eclipse during IYA2009 may unveil cosmic secrets

During 2009 the sky will provide some exciting events, including the longest total solar eclipse of the 21st century, occurring on 22 July 2009 and lasting 6 minutes 39 seconds over a narrow corridor through countries such as India, Bangladesh and China.

As well as being a visually stunning experience, observing eclipses helps scientists to unravel mysteries at the frontiers of science. Previous studies of solar eclipses have led to the discovery of helium, the temperature of the Sun's corona, and the role of magnetic fields within stellar atmospheres. New research and discoveries may be made during IYA2009, thanks to the eclipse occurring in July.

Nature journal is featuring an article describing the scientific merits of eclipses. Read it here: http://www.nature.com/nature/journal/v459/n7248/full/nature07987.html

 


Organisational Associates:
ESO AAS INSU CAS STRW NOVA STFC SCNAT SPA NRC MEC CNES DLR ESA JAXA NAOJ APL PS ESF ISRO ICRAN NLSI NOT U Cluster NASAEAS ASI NRAO CEA  KASI EAE SPA AUI CROSCI



The International Year of Astronomy 2009 is endorsed by the United Nations and the International Council of Science.