Recently, the Solar Dynamics Observatory from the NASA captured an M-class solar flare that, despite its apparent power, was reabsorbed by the Sun’s gravity. This phenomenon, known as a “failed flare,” occurs when the emitted electromagnetic radiation fails to escape the solar gravitational field. The eruption was an impressive display of energy, but ultimately had no direct effect on Earth.
Solar flares are classified according to their intensity into classes A, B, C, M and X, with class M representing a medium to high level of power. M-class events, like the one observed, are powerful and can result in coronal mass ejections (CMEs) that cause geomagnetic storms and auroras.
Despite the failed eruption, the active solar region AR3697 released a coronal mass ejection (CME) that resulted in a G1 level geomagnetic storm on earth. G1 level geomagnetic storms are considered minors, but they can still cause auroras at high latitudes and have minimal effects on power grids and satellite communications. NOAA had predicted increased geomagnetic activity, leading to a G1 storm, which occurred yesterday without causing significant damage.
Technological effects of solar storms
CMEs can negatively affect Earth technologies. For example, in 2022, geomagnetic storms damaged approximately 40 of SpaceX’s Starlink satellites, demonstrating the potential impact of solar storms on critical infrastructure. Despite advances in forecasting and risk mitigation, the ability to accurately predict solar storms remains limited, requiring further investment in research and development to improve our understanding of these phenomena.
The month of May 2024 saw one of the most intense solar storms in decades, with numerous solar flares and CMEs reaching Earth. This period led to a G5-level geomagnetic storm, the highest on the intensity scale, causing auroras visible at unusually low latitudes, such as in the southern United States and northern India. This event was followed by a series of X-class flares, including one of class X8.7, the most powerful of solar cycle 25, which caused radio blackouts due to strong emissions of X-rays and extreme ultraviolet radiation.
Accurately predicting solar storms is crucial to protecting Earth and space infrastructure. Organizations like NOAA and NASA constantly monitor solar activity to provide timely warnings and reduce the impact of geomagnetic storms. Collaboration between scientists and the global community is essential to improve our ability to respond to these natural events. For example, collecting data from citizens during auroras has allowed scientists to gain valuable insights into solar storms and their consequences on Earth.
