Observation Signatures of Magnetic Reconnection in Solar Flares
Astrid Veronig (University of Graz, Institute of Physics/ Kanzelhöhe Observatory)
Abstract. Magnetic field reconnection is believed to play a fundamental role in the energy release process in solar flares. We present extreme ultraviolet (EUV) and X-ray observations of two solar flares (one confined, one eruptive) providing evidence of magnetic reconnection with an unprecedented level of detail. The multi-wavelength EUV observations from SDO/AIA show inflowing cool loops and newly formed, outflowing hot loops. RHESSI X-ray spectra and images simultaneously show the appearance of plasma heated to >10 MK at the expected locations. Detailed studies of the plasma inflow reveal characteristics of a non-steady and asymmetric reconnection process.
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