The Sun goes through an activity cycle of approximately 11 years.so it has been reported from a calm state to a period full of eruptions, plasma releases and sunspots.
In recent months, there has been an increase in related information on solar storms and northern lights; that’s because solar maximum has rapidly approached. But how could this stage affect Earth?
The pages of history reveal the immense force of solar storms, with the most powerful geomagnetic storm on record that occurred in 1859.
During this event, the auroras were visible even in tropical regions, and the electromagnetic fury was so intense that a telegraph station caught fire, according to the specialized site IFL Science.
While such a colossal solar storm would certainly have significant repercussions today, it would not cause global devastation.
The rarity of such events, combined with our advances in space weather forecasting, provides a layer of defense to mitigate potential damage. However, these events remind us of the vital role that Earth’s magnetic field plays in protecting us.
The shield of the magnetosphere and solar radiation
The magnetosphere of our planet stands as our guardian against the most severe effects of solar storms.
Even the most powerful solar radiation storm, as classified by the NOAA Space Weather Scale, primarily poses a threat to astronauts in space.
Those on airplanes or residing in higher latitudes may experience high levels of radiation exposure. In the context of a solar cycle, an extreme solar storm of this magnitude could last for about a day.
Coronal mass ejections and solar flares are the drivers of solar stormsand only the most powerful eruptions (class X) are recorded on the NOAA scale.
While most flares do not pose a direct danger to us, their impact on our technology can be profound. Even flares in the M-class category can wreak havoc on satellites, alter the shape of the atmosphere, and disrupt communication systems.
Keep reading:
· Russian scientists warn about the activity of a powerful solar flare: potential impact on communications
· Northern lights phenomenon will not be visible today in New York or other states of the country: astronomical update
· Solar storm will hit the United States, what will be its consequences?
