The global structure of magnetic fields which support quiescent prominences

Magnetic fields in quiescent prominences were observed, but only recently has it become possible to measure the full magnetic field vector. The component of the field along the line of sight, B (parallel) can be uniquely determined, whereas for the component perpendicular to the line of sight B (perpendicular) and -B (perpendicular) are indistinguishable. An ambiguity remains in the actual magnetic field vector, in particular with respect to its orientation relative to the prominence axis. A sample of more than 100 prominences were studied. A more detailed analysis of 10 prominences are presented, and then set these prominence fields into relation to the underlying photospheric fields. It is found from statistical analysis of several hundred prominences that in 25% of the cases the field penetrates the prominence directly, whereas in 75% the field orientation in the prominence is reversed.