Context: AI Sun Image Analysis
Artificial Intelligence is being used to study over 100 years of solar images from the Kodaikanal Solar Observatory.
The aim is to understand solar activity, sunspots and long-term changes in the Sun.
Kodaikanal Solar Observatory
Located In
- Tamil Nadu
Established
- 1899
Operated By
- Indian Institute of Astrophysics
Data Used
The observatory has a long historical archive of solar images.
These include:
- Sunspot images
- Plage images
- Filament images
- Prominence images
Role of AI
AI helps in:
- Digitising old solar images
- Identifying sunspots
- Studying magnetic activity
- Tracking solar cycles
- Analysing long-term solar variability
- Improving space weather prediction
Why Solar Activity Matters
Solar activity can affect:
- Satellites
- GPS systems
- Communication networks
- Power grids
- Aviation routes
- Space missions
Sunspots
Sunspots are dark, cooler regions on the Sun’s surface associated with intense magnetic activity.
Solar Cycle
The Sun follows an approximately 11-year solar cycle, during which sunspot activity rises and falls.
Significance
- Helps understand long-term solar behaviour.
- Improves prediction of solar storms.
- Supports satellite and communication safety.
- Strengthens India’s solar physics research.
- Shows the use of AI in scientific heritage data.
