Last Wednesday (May 14) around 08:25 UTC, the Sun showed us an incredible X2.7-class solar flare, the most powerful one recorded this year. This event was captured, of course,by NASA’s Solar Dynamics Observatory, it erupted from the most active part of this star, called region 4087, located on the eastern edge of the Sun.

This explosion was a serious one, strong enough to cause temporary radio communication outages on the sunlit side of Earth… But no worries are allowed here: according to NOAA, this time there were no serious consequences!! Just a small scare (and a big show for telescopes).

Even NOAA experts confirmed there was no severe impact on Earth… We cannot stop thinking if it is the end of the world? Let’s explain about it, are you curious about it?

What is a solar flare?

Okay, let’s start, it is an explosive release of energy that causes a rupture and reconnection of the Sun’s magnetic field lines. But this does not mean the Sun is going to explode! It’s a common situation during the Sun’s most active phase in its 11-year cycle. During these events, intense X-ray and gamma radiation is emitted, capable of impacting communications and navigation on Earth. Maybe that’s why your Wi-Fi was acting up on the 14^th and you just thought that it had dropped, but it was just one of those coronal mass ejections.

Wait, what is a coronal mass ejection?

Flares are often accompanied by coronal mass ejections (CMEs), in other words, massive clouds of solar particles that travel through space at high speed… These CMEs, when interacting with Earth’s magnetosphere, can trigger geomagnetic storms, auroras, and, in extreme cases, affect satellites and power grids. Now it sounds more familiar to you, right?

Active region 4087

Just as Earth is divided by continents, the Sun is divided by regions. In this case, region AR 4087 was responsible not only for the X2.7 flare but also for four smaller M-class eruptions that same day, showing we’re in a period of high magnetic instability, perfect for those astronomy’s lovers (like us!!)

Although this flare was not directly aimed at Earth, its intensity shows that the current Solar Cycle remains highly active, approaching the end of its maximum phase!

Should we worry about solar flares?

Beyond possible effects on air navigation (due to satellite interference) and radio communication disruptions, we don’t need to worry… These flares occur at such a great distance that we can breathe easy (for now).

And what about the auroras?

You might not have known that these eruptions generate auroras, northern (borealis) and southern (australis). Those beautiful lights that kiss the Earth(have you seen Brother Bear??).

This sky spectacle happens when solar particles collide with our atmosphere, creating a magnetic shield that protects the planet. As they enter through the poles, they meet oxygen and nitrogen, releasing energy as the colourful lights we see. A true show you must witness at least once in your life!

Our Sun is unpredictable, but, how much it gives us! For now, we can live in peace, knowing there are still many flares to come. Haven’t you prepare yet your  trip to see the Northern Lights? We assure you won’t regret it!