Investigators are performing a series of observational and theoretical programs on the structure and dynamics of magnetic fields in filament channels, particularly the origin of the axial field. Using several ground- and space-based observational telescopes, they study magnetic features and plasma flows in and around filament channels on the Sun. They are searching for evidence of magnetic reconnection in small-scale emerging or canceling bipoles near polarity inversion lines. In addition, they seek to deduce axial fields in prominences and filament channels observed near the limb, as well as the evolution of filament channels and filaments at high latitude, and the formation of the polar crowns. Finally, they use satellite data to study the role of magnetic reconnection in establishing observed global patterns of helicity in prominences and coronal arcades.
