Sun-like stars rotate differentially, with the equator rotating faster than the higher latitudes. The blue arrows in the figure represent rotation speed. Differential rotation is thought to be an essential ingredient for generating magnetic activity and starspots. Credit: MPI for Solar System Research/MarkGarlick.com
Equators of Sun-like stars rotate up to two and a half times as fast as higher latitudes. Scientists have measured the differential rotation on Sun-like stars for the first time, and their findings challenge current science on how stars rotate. Until now, little was known about the precise rotational patterns of Sun-like stars, only that the equator spins faster than at higher latitudes, similar to the Sun.
Scientists at the NYU Abu Dhabi Center for Space Science used observat...
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