The chromosphere: gateway to the corona, or the purgatory of solar physics?

TL;DR

Understanding the solar chromosphere is crucial for insights into the corona, space weather, and plasma physics, as it connects various solar and astrophysical phenomena, yet many observations remain puzzling and require further investigation.

Contribution

The paper emphasizes the importance of studying the chromosphere for broader solar and astrophysical physics, highlighting unresolved observations and their implications.

Findings

Curious observations in the chromosphere challenge current understanding.

The chromosphere's role is vital for understanding the corona and space weather.

Many phenomena in the chromosphere remain puzzling and need further research.

Abstract

I argue that one should attempt to understand the solar chromosphere not only for its own sake, but also if one is interested in the physics of: the corona; astrophysical dynamos; space weather; partially ionized plasmas; heliospheric UV radiation; the transition region. I outline curious observations which I personally find puzzling and deserving of attention.