The program described here proposes to explore the possibility of subsurface diagnostics of magnetic structure and flows using techniques in computational holography. The database provided by SOHO's MDI experiment is the ideal medium for the application of local helioseismic diagnostics. The prospect of viewing local subsurface magnetic regions and flows opens an entirely new dimension to helioseismology, as to solar and stellar physics in general. Local acoustic diagnostics could revolutionize our understanding of the solar dynamo and the 22-year activity cycle. It may make it possible to anticipate solar activity far in advance of its emergence to the surface.
Solar activity is important to our solar-terrestrial perspective.
Its effects on the terrestrial atmosphere and on communications have been established for decades. Its effects on satellites are critical and sometimes disastrous. If we are to continue space exploration into the coming millennium, particularly manned exploration outside of the near-earth environment, it will be essential that we understand solar activity as extensively as possible. We are convinced that helioseismic holography is essential for definitive diagnostics of solar activity.