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 does the detection of high energy light from solar flares indicate about the Sun's activity?

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Describe the process that leads to the creation of gamma rays during a solar flare.

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