Solar Orbiter captures first detailed view of Sun’s poles and fast magnetic flows

ESA's Solar Orbiter has captured the first detailed images of the Sun's poles by tilting 17 degrees above the planetary plane, revealing previously hidden magnetic field movements. The spacecraft discovered magnetic fields flowing toward the poles at unexpected speeds of 10-20 meters per second, nearly matching equatorial flow rates contrary to previous assumptions. These observations provide crucial insights into the Sun's eleven-year magnetic cycle and internal circulation patterns.