Strongest magnetic storm in 7 years

NASA’s Solar Dynamics Observatory (SDO) recorded a firestorm (magnetic storm) occurring on October 1 – the strongest of cycle 25, and also the strongest since 2017.

The firestorm is level X9.0. In the firestorm scale, class In each class, the intensity is classified in more detail from 1 to 9 according to increasing strength.

This magnetic storm is believed to be released from sunspot AR3842. It caused a loss of radio signals and disruption of communications on the daytime side of the Earth at the time, according to IFL Science on October 5. This sunspot is heading towards Earth and releasing coronal eruptions towards the planet where humans live.

This magnetic storm phenomenon affects communication systems, satellites and electrical infrastructure, but experts say “it can still be controlled because we know the storm is approaching and we will know what to do.” From a positive perspective, when storms are strong, interesting auroras will appear.

Magnetic storms, also known as solar flares, are massive releases of energy associated with sunspots. Dark spots are darker because they are cooler than surrounding areas but are much more magnetic. The magnetic field there can be about 2,500 times stronger than Earth’s, significantly stronger than the rest of the Sun.

Magnetic storms are also associated with coronal eruptions, when charged plasma from the sun is launched at high speed into interplanetary space. This plasma can affect satellites and electrical infrastructure on Earth, as well as create brilliant auroras over high latitudes.

Most geomagnetic storms are not dangerous, although strong storms can disrupt radio transmissions or destroy power lines and other infrastructure. In 2022, a highly active area on the Sun shoots out many large flares and coronal eruptions (CME), revealing that the Sun is “awakening” after a quiet period in its long active cycle. 11 years long.