133 Days on the Sun

Experience the mesmerizing journey of solar activity in this stunning time-lapse video captured by NASA’s Solar Dynamics Observatory (SDO) from August 12 to December 22, 2022. Immerse yourself in the dynamic beauty of our closest star as SDO's 4K x 4K resolution imagery unveils intricate details of the Sun's workings and its impact on our solar system.

Witness the Sun's 133-day transformation condensed into 59 minutes through a series of images taken at an extreme-ultraviolet wavelength of 17.1 nanometers, showcasing its outermost atmospheric layer, the corona. The video captures the Sun's vibrant active regions traversing its surface as it rotates, creating a mesmerizing dance of light and energy.

Marvel at the magnetic fields that create luminous loops above the Sun's bright regions, trapping scorching plasma and occasionally leading to solar flares. The orchestration of these phenomena is a captivating display of celestial mechanics.

As you explore this visual journey, discover moments when Earth and the Moon briefly eclipse SDO, or when instrumental adjustments momentarily dim the imagery. Despite these occasional lapses, SDO's unrelenting gaze has enabled us to gather invaluable insights into our cosmic neighborhood.

Accompanying the visuals is a continuous mix from Lars Leonhard’s “Geometric Shapes” album, adding an immersive auditory layer to the cosmic spectacle. The music complements the celestial ballet, enhancing the viewer's experience.

This remarkable footage, available for sharing and downloading, is a testament to human curiosity and technological achievement. Join us as SDO and NASA's other pioneering missions continue to unveil the mysteries of the cosmos, deepening our understanding of space and enhancing the safety of our astronauts and assets.