The mission consists of a coordinated set of optical, EUV and X-ray instruments that will apply a systems approach to the interaction between the Sun's magnetic field and its high temperature, ionized atmosphere. The result will be an improved understanding of the mechanisms which give rise to solar magnetic variability and how this variability modulates the total solar output and creates the driving force behind space weather. Solar-B will, for the first time, provide quantitative measurements of the full vector magnetic field on small enough scales to resolve elemental flux tubes. Solar-B is planned to start in FY99, launch in FY04, and operate for at least 3 years.
Magnetic fields permeate all space and play an important role in shaping the universe on all scales.
The fields are continuously being generated by dynamos in stellar interiors and swept out into space by stellar winds. The amplitude of this variation, over the single cycle measured, though small was only a factor of three to five below the level required for a significant climatic response. Solar-B will make the first observations with resolution, wavelength coverage, and time span adequate to determine the mechanism for the magnetic modulation of solar luminosity. The Sun is a powerful and highly variable source of ultraviolet, X-rays and energetic particles, which are known to have major effects on our environment. This high energy radiation must be due to the annihilation of magnetic energy in the Sun's atmosphere, the chromosphere and corona.