Solar neutrino physics: historical evolution, present status and perspectives

We first study the evolution of knowledge on how the Sun works, on neutrinos and on solar nu 's and the main features of solar models and of nu e production are shown. Detection methods to detect nu 's are exposed and experimental results are reviewed. Solar nu problems are detailed, while proposed solutions are analysed. The aim and features of the next detectors are presented and the characteristics of the proposed next generation of detectors are listed. We sum up the perspectives in nu physics at the beginning of this century.