Is There Water on the Sun?

About this episode

This episode explores the existence of water vapor on the Sun and the science behind it.

Is there water on the Sun? It might sound impossible, but the answer is yes—in a way! In this episode, we dive into the science of the Sun to find out how water vapor can exist in its cooler regions called sunspots. Along the way, we explore the states of matter, learn what plasma is, and discover how scientists use a tool called spectroscopy—kind of like reading a rainbow barcode—to detect different elements, even on the surface of a star. We also talk about how spacecraft like the Parker Solar Probe help us study the Sun from a safe distance. Get ready to explore one of the hottest, most surprising places in the solar system!

People in this episode

Host: Arwen Hubbard

Topics covered

• water on the Sun
• science of the Sun
• states of matter
• plasma
• spectroscopy
• spacecraft

Keywords

• water vapor
• Sun
• sunspots
• plasma
• spectroscopy
• Parker Solar Probe
• states of matter

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Parker Solar Probe

Places: Sun, solar system, sunspots

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