Some problems in low frequency solar radio physics

Abstract

Several important problems in solar radio physics can be attacked using the high spatial resolution observations from a low frequency space array, as the problem of ionospheric refraction does not exist. Noise storms are believed to occur in closed magnetic loops due to trapped superthermal particles. Recent radioheliograph observations suggest such a magnetic field topology up to altitudes of about 40 MHz emission. The problem of relative locations and sources of the storm continuum and bursts can be effectively studied by imaging them with higher spatial resolution. Interplanetary type II bursts are observed from heights above ~ 10 R_⊙ while coronal type II bursts are observed from heights less than ~ 3 R_⊙. Observations filling this gap have important implications for the understanding of solar-terrestrial relations through shocks and mass ejections.