New Cycle Sunspot (June 5, 2009)

Hi-res TIF image (1.8M)

MPEG Movie: Large (6.9M)
Quicktime Movie: Large ( 29M), Medium (8.7M)

SOHO observed a fairly active magnetic region as it rotated towards the center of the Sun (May 20 - June 3, 2009). Its magnetic loops twisted and gyrated as it appeared to generate more intensity over time and burst out a number of small flares. Its magnetic orientation and high latitude marked it as belonging to the new Solar Cycle 24. A quick check with the STEREO (Behind) images (http://stereo.gsfc.nas.gov) suggests that another active region may soon be coming into view as well. Perhaps solar activity, in the doldrums for about two years, may be picking up a bit. Stay tuned!

SOHO began its Weekly Pick some time after sending a weekly image or video clip to the American Museum of Natural History (Rose Center) in New York City. There, the SOHO Weekly Pick is displayed with some annotations on a large plasma display.

If your institution would also like to receive the same Weekly Pick from us for display (usually in Photoshop or QuickTime format), please send your inquiry to steele.hill@gsfc.nasa.gov.