Solar Activity and Atmosphere at Big Bear Solar Observatory

The Big Bear Solar Observatory (BBSO), now being operated by the New Jersey Institute of Technology, continues observations in solar physics. The continuing activities focus on aspects of both high resolution observations and infrared observations. Upgrades and installation of new instruments enable significant advances in understanding of the Sun's magnetic structures. Investigators expect results to also broaden understanding of the fine structure of granules, pores and sunspots (and associated waves), the contrast of faculae and sunspots at various wavelengths, and the evolution of magnetic structures in flare producing regions. Quantitative synoptic observations accurately monitor the rising phase of Cycle 23, providing tools for predicting flares and filament eruptions. In all, the BBSO contributes to understanding flare mechanism, small-scale magneto-convection, and the three-dimensional structure of the solar atmosphere, all crucial causal factors in space weather.