Observational Properties of Coronal Mass Ejections

Abstract

Coronal mass ejections (CMEs) have been known and observed for over 30 years. The total number of observed CMEs is now approaching 10,000, most of them detected with the LASCO coronagraph on the SOHO spacecraft. We review statistical work on CME widths, latitudes, accelerations, speeds, masses, and rates of occurrence. Solar-cycle variations of these parameters are presented. Recent work has focused on CME internal properties and compositions and on CME dynamics, particularly at low (< 3 solar radii) altitudes. The challenges to understand the magnetic topology of narrow (< 20 deg width) CMEs, to determine the relationship of coronal holes to CMEs, and to observe magnetic reconnection that effects magnetic disconnections of CMEs from the Sun are discussed.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Jan 01, 2006
Accession Number
ADA467052

Entities

People

  • Stephen W. Kahler

Organizations

  • Air Force Research Laboratory

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Advanced Electronics
  • C4I
  • Space

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Air Force Research Laboratories
  • Boundaries
  • Coronal Mass Ejections
  • Cycles
  • Dynamics
  • Geometry
  • Latitude
  • Physical Properties
  • Solar Activity
  • Solar Cycle
  • Solar Flares
  • Space Weather
  • Spacecraft
  • Sun
  • Three Dimensional
  • Topology
  • X Rays

Fields of Study

  • Physics

Readers

  • Solar Physics

Technology Areas

  • Space