Spectroscopic Features in the EUV Emission of a M8 Flare Observed by SUMER

Abstract

A flare of size M8 occurred while SUMER was recording a spectral scan above the active region NOAA 8537 at the west limb. We recorded spectra during the pre-flare phase, at flare onset, and during the decay phase of this main flare in a series of events. More than 60 flare lines were identified during this observation, which include Fe XVIII - Fe XXIII lines that provide evidence of 107 K plasmas. We also recorded lines from He-like ions, such as Ne IX, Na x, Mg XI, and Si XIII. Accurate wavelength measurements of such lines are of interest in basic atomic physics studies. Using plasma diagnostic techniques, we investigated the temporal evolution of the electron densities and temperatures during the event.