Multi-height Measurements Of The Solar Vector Magnetic Field: A White Paper Submitted To The Decadal Survey For Solar And Space Physics (Heliophysics) 2024-2033

TL;DR

This white paper emphasizes the need for multi-height vector magnetic field measurements in the solar atmosphere to better understand magnetic origins, coupling, and space weather phenomena, proposing a coordinated observational network.

Contribution

It advocates for a next-generation multi-platform solar observing network to provide comprehensive magnetic field data across different atmospheric heights.

Findings

Multi-height measurements are essential for understanding magnetic field emergence and evolution.

The proposed network will enable large datasets for statistical and operational space weather research.

This approach will improve understanding of solar magnetic phenomena and their impacts.

Abstract

This white paper advocates the importance of multi-height measurements of the vector magnetic field in the solar atmosphere. As briefly described in this document, these measurements are critical for addressing some of the most fundamental questions in solar and heliospheric physics today, including: (1) What is the origin of the magnetic field observed in the solar atmosphere? (2) What is the coupling between magnetic fields and flows throughout the solar atmosphere? Accurate measurements of the photospheric and chromospheric three-dimensional magnetic fields are required for a precise determination of the emergence and evolution of active regions. Newly emerging magnetic flux in pre-existing magnetic regions causes an increase in the topological complexity of the magnetic field, which leads to flares and coronal mass ejections. Measurements of the vector magnetic field constitute also the primary product for space weather operations, research, and modeling of the solar atmosphere and heliosphere. The proposed next generation Ground-based solar Observing Network Group (ngGONG), a coordinated system of multi-platform instruments, will address these questions and provide large datasets for statistical investigations of solar feature behavior and evolution and continuity in monitoring for space-weather focused endeavors both research and operational. It will also enable sun-as-a-star investigations, crucial as we look toward understanding other planet-hosting stars.