introducing the heliophysic big year

The sun is a massive, luminous ball of hot plasma at the center of our solar system. It is a nearly perfect sphere, composed primarily of hydrogen (about 74% by mass) and helium (about 24%). It plays a pivotal role in sustaining life on Earth and is responsible for providing the energy necessary for various processes, including photosynthesis in plants.

The sun's surface, known as the photosphere, has an average temperature of around 5,500 degrees Celsius (9,932 degrees Fahrenheit). It emits a vast amount of electromagnetic radiation, including visible light, ultraviolet (UV) radiation, and infrared radiation. This radiation is essential for maintaining the Earth's temperature and supporting various ecosystems.