Interacting Active Regions

A cluster of active regions, with dynamic loops of charged particles that are tracing magnetic field lines, had a field day making and breaking connections with each other over 36 hours (Dec. 10-11, 2012). This close-up of about 20% of the visible surface was taken in extreme ultraviolet light. A small flare that flashes from the active region at the upper right about mid-way through the clip triggers a coiled tower of magnetic field lines as the regions try to reorganize themselves.