Sun Erupts with Colossal X-Class Flares, Disrupting Radio in Americas and Pacific
The sun has recently dazzled observers with two significant X-class solar flares, which occurred within 12 hours. These colossal eruptions resulted in widespread radio disruptions on Earth, particularly impacting regions in the Americas and the Pacific.
Details of Recent Solar Activity
The first of the two explosive events was classified as an X1.8-class flare. This eruption originated from sunspot AR4274 and occurred at 12:34 p.m. EST (1734 GMT). Its powerful energy caused an R3 radio blackout throughout much of North and South America.
Later that day, at 5:02 p.m. EST (2202 GMT), a second flare, an X1.1-class, erupted from another sunspot concealed beyond the sun’s southeastern limb. This flare also generated a strong radio blackout, this time affecting areas over the North Pacific Ocean, New Zealand, and parts of eastern Australia.
Coronal Mass Ejections
Each flare produced accompanying coronal mass ejections (CMEs), which are enormous clouds of magnetized plasma. Fortunately, early models indicated that neither CME was directed towards Earth. However, their edges might interact with a fast stream of solar wind later in the week, potentially leading to strong (G3) geomagnetic storms predicted around November 6-7.
Opportunities for Aurora Viewing
For those interested in observing auroras, this uptick in geomagnetic activity is promising. Geomagnetic storms can create vibrant auroral displays in the atmosphere.
Ongoing Solar Activity
Sunspot AR4274 continues to exhibit complex magnetic properties and is turning towards Earth. This positioning raises the likelihood of future eruptions that could be directed at our planet. NOAA forecasts a 65% chance of additional M-class flares and a 15% chance of further X-class flares in the upcoming days.
On the morning of November 5, AR4274 produced an M7.4-class flare peaking at 6:15 a.m. EST (1115 GMT). This flare was also associated with a partial-halo CME that might pose an Earth-directed threat. NOAA is currently analyzing this CME to assess any potential impact on geomagnetic conditions.
Understanding Radio Blackouts
R3 radio blackouts are classified as strong events on NOAA’s five-level scale. They can disrupt high-frequency radio communications and navigation signals for up to an hour in sunlit regions of Earth, often affecting aviation and maritime operations.
What Are X-Class Solar Flares?
X-class solar flares represent the most potent type of solar flare. These intense bursts stem from the release of magnetic energy in active sunspot regions. Each flare launches radiation and charged particles into space, potentially disrupting communications on Earth, especially when originating from Earth-facing sunspots. The number associated with the X-class indicates its strength, with each increment representing a doubling of power.
