Solar Oscillation Background Spectrum and Time-Distance Helioseismology

Principal Investigator / Institution: John W. Harvey/NOAO

This investigation will utilize SOI/MDI data from the SOHO spacecraft to 
characterize the background of the solar oscillation spectrum.  This is important 
for correct determination of p-mode frequencies, for diagnosis of the physics of 
the excitation of p modes, and provides basic information about convection and 
limits on the characteristics of wave propagation in solar atmosphere.  This 
investigation will also help to further develop the techniques of high-frequency 
and time-distance helioseismology for local studies of the solar interior in 
collaboration with other members of the SOI High-Frequency and 
Time-Distance Teams.

The investigation relates to NASA's Space Science Program by exploiting 
data obtained by the NASA-funded SOI/MDI to learn more about the sun.  
The strategy of the proposed work is to allow the guest investigator to travel 
to Stanford to work directly with the SOI/MDI team.  Such direct consultation 
is necessary to fully understand instrumental and observational corrections that 
are required to analyze the background spectrum.  The techniques of high-frequency 
and time-distance helioseismology are at early stages of development where 
face-to-face discussions are high profitable.