Solar observations from space and from the ground

Recent results from space missions like YOHKOH, SOHO or TRACE as well as ground‐based observations clearly indicate that physical processes of most solar phenomena take place on small scales, which are still below the resolution of the instruments employed. There is an urgent need for observations at higher resolution and also for their extension to multi‐wavelength regimes. Space‐borne as well as ground‐based instruments have limitations of the present‐day technology, although in a different way. In this communication, an overview of space instruments currently in operation or in the preparation phase is presented and references to more detailed information are given.