Sunrise telescope takes off (DI02018)

• Other Authors: Calvin, Carlye (Carlye Calvin) (photographerpht)
• Format: Still Image
• Language: unknown
• Published: University Corporation for Atmospheric Research (UCAR)
• Subjects: Science > Experiments; Research > Equipment and supplies; Sun > Research; Canada; Esrange; Kiruna; Resolute Bay; Somerset Island; Antarc*; Antarctica
• Online Access: http://n2t.net/ark:/85065/d7vm49dq

On June 8, 2009, the Sunrise telescope was successfully launched from Esrange Space Center in Kiruna, Sweden. After its launch the giant helium balloon drifted west over the Norwegian coast, recording high-resolution images of the Sun's outer surface with its powerful telescope. It landed 68 nautical miles south of Resolute Bay on Somerset Island, Canada five days later. The images are providing a wealth of data for scientists studying the structure and dynamics of the solar magnetic field. Sunrise is scheduled to make a flight above Antarctica in 2011.