The Solar Orbiter spacecraft has captured a unique phenomenon for the first time—spiral vortices of the solar wind forming after a coronal mass ejection. These structures, resembling giant cyclones, persisted for three hours and extended up to three solar radii. This discovery was made possible by the Metis coronagraph, which blocks direct sunlight, allowing scientists to study hidden processes in the Sun’s corona.
To enhance visibility, researchers applied special image processing techniques to increase contrast. This method helps reveal fine details of the solar wind, although it also introduces visual artifacts, such as horizontal streaks from background stars.
According to ESA, Metis is currently the only instrument capable of detecting these vortices, though it may soon face competition from the coronagraph aboard the upcoming Proba-3 mission. The analysis of the video footage, published in The Astrophysical Journal, could provide new insights into the mechanisms behind solar wind formation.
Solar wind consists of charged particles streaming throughout the Solar System. It affects Earth’s magnetosphere, triggering auroras and geomagnetic storms, and plays a crucial role in shaping space weather.
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