NASA Satellite Detects Solar Flares Aimed at Earth's Atmosphere
NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory (SDO) detected powerful solar flares erupting from the Sun on May 5th, which are expected to impact Earth's atmosphere within the next several days.
The flares, categorized as X1.3 and X1.2 on NOAA's scale, originated from an active sunspot group called AR 3663.
Sunspots: "Cosmic Cannons" Unleashing Flares
Sunspots are dark, relatively cool areas on the Sun's surface. They are caused by intense magnetic fields disrupting convection and reducing temperatures in these regions.
These magnetic fields can build up and eventually explode, releasing energy in the form of solar flares or, in some cases, large plasma bubbles called coronal mass ejections (CMEs).
Impact on Earth: Geomagnetic Storms
When these energetic projectiles interact with Earth's magnetic field, they can cause disturbances known as geomagnetic storms.
While geomagnetic storms are not directly detectable by humans (except for the associated aurora in polar regions), they can affect radio systems, navigation equipment, and satellites. Migrating birds may also experience temporary disorientation. In rare cases, severe geomagnetic storms can even cause power outages.
Active Sunspot Group
According to Science Alert, there are currently nine sunspot groups or regions—comprising approximately 150 individual sunspots—on the Earth-facing side of the Sun.
However, AR 3663 has been the most active. It emerged on April 30th and has so far produced 14 M-class (moderate) and three X-class flares. Experts predict at least one or two more X-class flares before the sunspot rotates away.
Heightened Solar Activity
The increased solar activity is part of the Sun's 11-year cycle, which is expected to peak in 2024 or 2025 before entering a quieter phase.
Summary:
NASA's SDO satellite has detected multiple powerful solar flares erupting from the Sun's active sunspot group, AR 3663. These flares are expected to impact Earth's atmosphere in the coming days, potentially causing geomagnetic storms that can disrupt technology and wildlife. The Sun's heightened activity is part of its normal 11-year cycle, which is expected to reach its peak in the next few years.