NASA | Fermi Detects Gamma Rays from a Solar Flare

The transcript discusses the observation of a significant solar flare by NASA's Fermi Gamma Ray Space Telescope on March 7. This event marked the first time the Sun became the brightest object in the gamma ray sky, surpassing the Vela pulsar. The Fermi Telescope's high angular resolution allowed scientists to pinpoint the gamma ray emissions to a specific region on the Sun's disk, confirming their origin from the solar flare. The gamma rays reached unprecedented energy levels and were recorded for 20 hours, setting a duration record. The transcript explains the mechanisms behind gamma ray activity, including magnetic reconnection and particle acceleration. The observations highlight Fermi's new role as a solar observatory, providing insights into the Sun's activity as it nears its maximum period.

What unusual event did NASA's Fermi Gamma Ray Space Telescope observe on March 7?

• The Sun became the brightest object in the gamma ray sky.

• The Sun emitted visible light for the first time.

• A new planet was discovered near the Sun.

• A solar eclipse was observed.

How did the Fermi telescope help scientists in understanding the solar flare?

• By capturing images of the Sun's surface.

• By measuring the temperature of the Sun.

• By narrowing down the gamma ray emissions to a specific part of the Sun's disk.

• By detecting new planets around the Sun.

What record did the March 7th solar flare set?

• The shortest duration of a solar flare.

• The coldest temperature on the Sun's surface.

• The highest energy light ever recorded from a solar flare.

• The longest solar eclipse.

What process is thought to cause solar flares?

• Nuclear fusion in the Sun's core.

• Reconnection of strong magnetic fields.

• Gravitational pull from nearby planets.

• Collision with asteroids.

What particle interaction leads to the creation of gamma rays during a solar flare?

• Protons colliding with gas in the Sun's atmosphere.

• Neutrons splitting into smaller particles.

• Electrons forming new elements.

• Atoms fusing together.