Automated identification of precursor Ca II K brightenings linked to subsequent flare kernels

Develop a fully automated algorithm that, given ROSA/DST Ca II K (3934 Å) imaging sequences in which multiple regions of interest exhibit impulsive brightenings, reliably identifies which compact Ca II K brightening is magnetically or physically linked to the subsequent flare kernel. The method should disambiguate competing candidates by incorporating morphological and magnetic connectivity constraints rather than relying on manual visual inspection or purely timing-based criteria.

Background

In several analyzed events, more than one region of interest shows impulsive Ca II K brightenings prior to the main flare kernel, creating ambiguity in associating a single brightening with the eventual flare onset. The pilot study resolves this by visual inspection of Ca II K and Hα context images and temporal cross-checking, but notes the lack of a fully automated solution.

A deployable, ground-based nowcasting module would benefit from an objective, machine-based disambiguation that leverages morphological signatures and magnetic connectivity, reducing false positives and improving operational reliability.