Beschreibung:
<jats:p>We report on new improved infrared (IR) imaging observations (1.6 μm) carried out with the National Solar Observatory's Vacuum Tower Telescope at Sacramento Peak, New Mexico (NSO/SP). Examples of high spatial resolution (up to 0.4″ images are shown, and results of comparisons between infrared and continuum at 526 nm and between infrared and the locations of enhanced magnetic field (“fluxtube regions” as defined by Mg I b1 line imaging) are given and discussed. Our results indicate that, close to disk center, magnetic elements have a <jats:italic>positive</jats:italic> contrast at the opacity minimum. This is contrary to the findings of several other authors (<jats:italic>e.g.,</jats:italic> Worden 1975, Foukal <jats:italic>et al.</jats:italic> 1990). We emphasize the necessity of multi-color, high spatial and temporal resolution observations. The potential of present “almost-on-a-routine-basis” IR observations utilizing a fast video acquisition system developed at NSO/SP is pointed out.</jats:p>