Particles from the Sun will reach Earth on April 16, hitting the planet’s magnetic field.

Scientists observed two rare types of explosions on the Sun. Along with these explosions, a mass of radioactive particles ejected into space from the Sun will reach Earth on April 16, impacting the planet’s magnetic field. These explosions result in plasma ejections called coronal mass ejections (CMEs). When CMEs reach Earth, they interact with the protective shield-like magnetic field surrounding the planet. The magnetic field prevents radioactive particles from reaching the Earth’s surface, thus safeguarding living organisms. As a result of this solar storm event, auroras known as the northern lights can be observed in a region extending to the mid-latitudes of Earth. However, CMEs can also affect satellites during solar storms, disrupting GPS signals and radio communication, sometimes paralyzing communication on Earth. The U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) indicated that the solar storm approaching Earth could reach the G2 category. The G2 level signifies a moderate geomagnetic storm on NOAA’s five-level scale, ranging from G1 (weakest) to G5 (most severe). A storm of G2 intensity could lead to the following: disruptions in radio communications in polar regions, visibility of auroras (northern lights) in high and mid latitudes (e.g., Canada, Scandinavia, U.S.), minor deviations in satellite systems and GPS services, occasional short-term interruptions, minor fluctuations or warnings in power grids, typically causing no significant damage, increased radiation levels for astronauts and satellites in space.

SUN AT SOLAR MAXIMUM

NOAA recently announced that the Sun has officially entered the “solar maximum” phase. The Sun is thus nearing the peak of an 11-year activity cycle. This suggests that more solar flares may occur soon, and the number of solar storms could increase. The Sun completes a cycle of activity every 11 years, alternating between calm and stormy phases, and begins a new one. The star entered its 25th cycle in 2019. The periods with lower solar activity, where solar flares and spots are at a minimum, are called “solar minimum.” The phases with increased sunspots and more frequent flares are referred to as “solar maximum.”