NOAA warned that Geomagnetic storm possible on May 26th due to recent CME. Know details.
Solar Storm Chance: Minor Geomagnetic Disturbance Possible
The Sun is nearing the solar maximum, a period in the solar cycle when the Sun’s activity reaches its peak. This phase occurs approximately every 11 years and is characterized by increased sunspot activity, solar flares, and coronal mass ejections (CMEs). However, ahead of it, our Sun goes through several active sunspot phases. Recent forecasts on solar weather indicate a chance of minor geomagnetic storms on May 26th.
This is due to a solar event called a coronal mass ejection (CME), which was triggered by a filament eruption on May 23rd. According to SpaceWeather.com, there’s a possibility of minor G1-class geomagnetic storms on May 26th. This is because a CME is expected to pass close to Earth‘s magnetic field. The CME came from a filament eruption near the center of the solar disk, specifically at coordinates S15E05.
Coronal mass ejections (CMEs) are big blasts of solar wind and magnetic fields from the sun’s outer layer. They often happen alongside solar flares and filament eruptions. When they head towards Earth, they can mess with our planet’s magnetosphere and cause geomagnetic storms.
Impact on EarthAs the CME gets closer to Earth, it interacts with our planet’s magnetic field. This interaction can cause changes and problems in the magnetosphere, leading to geomagnetic storms. Even though G1-class storms are usually mild, they can still affect things like satellites and power grids.
It’s important to keep track of solar flares and geomagnetic storms to be prepared in advance for any disturbance. NOAA satellites closely monitor the sun to track solar flares and coronal mass ejections (CMEs). These sudden events can quickly reach Earth, sometimes in just minutes. Using this data, NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center delivers forecasts and alerts regarding solar activity.
STRONGEST Solar Storm In Two DecadesOn May 10th, Earth experienced its most potent solar storm in over twenty years, resulting in a breathtaking showcase of celestial phenomena. Auroras graced regions that seldom witness nature’s luminous spectacle, including India’s Ladakh. Additionally, Starlink, Elon Musk’s SpaceX satellite venture, issued a cautionary notice regarding “degraded service” owing to the geomagnetic disturbance. With approximately 60% ownership of the nearly 7,500 satellites orbiting Earth, Starlink holds a significant position in the satellite internet arena. Musk previously acknowledged on X that Starlink satellites were facing considerable strain from the geomagnetic storm but were thus far resilient.
Shambhu Kumar is a science communicator, making complex scientific topics accessible to all. His articles explore breakthroughs in various scientific disciplines, from space exploration to cutting-edge research.
