Observations of the limb solar flare on 1980 April 30 with the SMM X-ray polychromator

Abstract

Soft X-ray observations of the limb event on 1980 April 30 are summarized. These consist of maps made with the Flat Crystal Spectrometer and calcium and iron spectra obtained with the Bent Crystal Spectrometer. The physical conditions, e.g., temperature, density, and energy fluxes, are estimated. The conductive losses exceed the radiative flux during the flare by a factor of about 100. Spectral lines were observed to have enhanced broadening, probably indicating turbulence, for several minutes, coincident with the hard X-ray burst. Since the estimated cooling time is less than the duration of the hot plasma, continuous heating is likely. An estimate is derived for the energy required of 3 x 10/sup 30/ ergs.