AAPOD2 Image Archives
Colossus CME
A dramatic evolution of a massive solar prominence that erupted from the Sun’s limb. Towering over 300,000 kilometers above the chromosphere, this colossal plasma structure offered a vivid display of solar activity and dynamic magnetic forces at work.
The image sequence documents three key stages of the event:
• June 28, 05:47 UTC – The prominence appeared stable, resembling a massive, tree-like arch rising from the solar surface.
• June 29, 06:02 UTC – The structure began to stretch and detach, signaling the start of an outbound eruption.
• June 29, 16:56 UTC – The prominence had fully lifted away from the Sun, transforming into a faint, wispy cloud as it rapidly disintegrated and expanded into the heliosphere.
This event likely culminated in a Coronal Mass Ejection (CME), sending charged particles into space at incredible speeds. It's a powerful reminder of the Sun’s ever-changing, dynamic nature.