In this composite view of the Sun, the image on the left, taken using a white light filter, provides a detailed look at the visible surface, or photosphere, revealing granular structures and sunspots that mark regions of complex magnetic activity. Sunspots are cooler areas created by strong magnetic fields inhibiting the transport of heat from the solar interior, appearing as dark blemishes on the solar surface.

On the right, the image captured with a Hydrogen-Alpha (Hα) filter unveils the chromosphere's dynamic features, showcasing solar prominences that tower over the Sun's limb. These prominences, composed of cooler plasma suspended in magnetic loops, offer a captivating glimpse into the intricate magnetic phenomena occurring on the solar surface.

Solar prominences can erupt in dramatic events known as solar flares, releasing intense bursts of energy and charged particles into space. These flares, often accompanied by coronal mass ejections (CMEs), can have significant impacts on our space environment, potentially affecting satellite operations and terrestrial communication systems.