Understanding the Sun's active regions is crucial for predicting space weather, but scientists have historically lacked continuous, detailed measurements of the Sun's hidden far side. New research by a team of scientists led by the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) National Solar Observatory have developed a novel approach to estimate the magnetic configuration of these hidden regions using helioseismic data (sound waves within the Sun). The method relies on crucial helioseismic data including measurements from the NSF-NOAA Global Oscillation Network Group (NSF-NOAA GONG), operated by NSO with support from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). This breakthrough paves the way for a more complete, full-Sun map of magnetic activity when combined with observations of the front-side to improve simulations of the solar environment and help forecasters anticipate potentially hazardous solar events.NSF-NOAA GONG Maps Hidden Magnetism on the Sun's Far Side
April 28, 2026
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Understanding the Sun's active regions is crucial for predicting space weather, but scientists have historically lacked continuous, detailed measurements of the Sun's hidden far side. New research by a team of scientists led by the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) National Solar Observatory have developed a novel approach to estimate the magnetic configuration of these hidden regions using helioseismic data (sound waves within the Sun). The method relies on crucial helioseismic data including measurements from the NSF-NOAA Global Oscillation Network Group (NSF-NOAA GONG), operated by NSO with support from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). This breakthrough paves the way for a more complete, full-Sun map of magnetic activity when combined with observations of the front-side to improve simulations of the solar environment and help forecasters anticipate potentially hazardous solar events.
