Solar Orbiter Captures Historic Images of the Sun's South Pole

In a groundbreaking achievement for solar science, the European Space Agency's (ESA) Solar Orbiter mission has successfully captured the first-ever images of the Sun's south pole, marking a significant milestone in our understanding of solar magnetism and atmospheric dynamics. On March 23, 2025, Solar Orbiter reached a critical orbital angle, allowing it to observe the Sun's polar region from a unique vantage point outside the traditional ecliptic plane, from which all previous observations have been made. "Today we reveal humankind’s first-ever views of the Sun’s pole," stated Professor Carole Mundell, ESA's Director of Science. "Understanding the Sun's workings is crucial, not only for solar science but also for predicting its impacts on modern technology and infrastructure."

This mission has utilized advanced imaging techniques from three instruments onboard the Solar Orbiter: the Polarimetric and Helioseismic Imager (PHI), the Extreme Ultraviolet Imager (EUI), and the Spectral Imaging of the Coronal Environment (SPICE). Each instrument provides a distinct perspective on solar activity, enabling scientists to gather comprehensive data about the Sun’s atmosphere. The PHI captures images in visible light, mapping the Sun's surface magnetic fields, while the EUI analyzes ultraviolet light to reveal the structure of the Sun's corona. SPICE, on the other hand, captures emissions from various temperature zones above the Sun’s surface, allowing for a layered analysis of solar gas movements.

The initial observations, taken on March 16 and 17, showcased the Sun's photosphere and its magnetic field. Notably, findings revealed a disordered state of the magnetic field near the Sun's south pole, a phenomenon typically observed during the solar maximum phase when the magnetic field is in transition. According to Professor Sami Solanki from the Max Planck Institute for Solar System Research, "We didn’t know what exactly to expect from these first observations - the Sun’s poles are literally terra incognita."

The Solar Orbiter's findings are not only historic but also critical for understanding solar wind generation, a key objective of the mission. The SPICE instrument has begun tracking atmospheric motion by measuring Doppler velocities, which provide insights into how particles in the Sun's atmosphere are moving. "Doppler measurements of solar wind from high latitudes will revolutionize solar physics," remarked Frédéric Auchère, team leader of SPICE from the University of Paris-Saclay.

As the Solar Orbiter continues its mission, it will gradually tilt its orbit to offer even clearer views of the Sun's poles, with the complete data set expected to be transmitted to Earth by October 2025. ESA's project scientist, Daniel Müller, emphasized the transformative potential of this mission: "These data will enhance our understanding of the Sun’s magnetic field, solar activity, and the solar wind."

The implications of these findings extend beyond theoretical solar science; they are crucial for the protection of technology on Earth that is susceptible to solar activity, such as communication systems and power grids. As the Solar Orbiter pulls back the curtain on the Sun's poles, it promises to unlock mysteries that impact life on Earth and throughout the solar system. The mission represents a collaborative effort among various institutions, including ESA, the Max Planck Institute for Solar System Research, and the University of Paris-Saclay, epitomizing the global endeavor to advance our knowledge of the cosmos.