Probing Solar and Stellar Physics by Helio- and Asteroseismology

Markus Roth, Kiepenheuer-Institut für Sonnenphysik, Freiburg - 16.07.18

Abstract:

The Sun and the stars are subject to sound waves that probe their interiors. Observations of these stellar oscillations have emerged as a powerful tool to gain information on the processes inside the Sun and the stars.

Through helio- and asteroseismology detailed inferences of the stellar internal structure and of the physical processes inside stars can be obtained. In particular, helioseismology allows studying large-scale flows, sunspots and other magnetic active areas on the Sun. The latter have an important impact on our technological society through potentially harmful solar eruptions.

However, a complete understanding of the Sun, and in particular of its magnetism, can only be obtained by understanding the internal structure and properties of the stars in general. Asteroseismology offers solving this problem.