Unexpected intensification of solar ejections
Shawn Dahl, service coordinator for the Space Weather Prediction Center, mentioned that a recent burst of coronal mass ejections (CMEs) from the Sun intensified unexpectedly.These ejections, consisting of plasma and magnetic fields erupted from solar flares, arrived stronger than anticipated. Since August 10, the centre has observed at least five solar flares with ejections. The storm reached a level-four intensity on a five-point scale, signifying significant disturbances.
Impact and duration of the solar storm
This intense solar storm is causing disruptions in communications and satellite operations, and putting stress on power grids. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has advised operators of sensitive infrastructure to take necessary precautions to mitigate these impacts. While the storm is not expected to intensify further, it could last for several hours, offering a rare celestial display for many.
Auroras surprise photographers
The solar activity triggered bright auroras on Sunday night across northern latitudes from Europe to Alaska, bringing the aurora borealis further south than usual. Photographers capturing the Perseids meteor showers were surprised by the unexpected display. Adam Silverman, a space weather enthusiast from Vermont, captured the auroras on Lake Champlain, expressing surprise at their intensity.
Eric Lagadec, an astrophysicist at the Cote d’Azur Observatory in France, also noted the widespread visibility of the northern lights. “I feel like I’m living through a historic night in France,” Lagadec said, highlighting the rare opportunity to witness the auroras.
Possibility of more auroras tonight
There is a possibility of auroras tonight as well, although it is uncertain. Dahl suggested watching the Space Weather Prediction Center’s webpage for updates.
Impact on power grids and satellites
The strength of the coronal mass ejections led NOAA to issue a G4 warning. The activity is expected to continue tonight, but the likelihood of another G4 event is lower. Geomagnetic storms like this one can disrupt technologies, including high-frequency communications. Power companies need to monitor voltage closely to ensure stability, as the power grid could experience currents not typically present.
Utilities can generally manage this type of storm without major issues. However, if unaddressed, it could result in “overheating transformers and causing voltage disparities,” or in severe cases, “bulk transmission loss over an extensive area.”
Satellites at risk
The storm also affects satellites. Operators were advised to adjust for the increased atmospheric density caused by the ejections, which could result in satellites experiencing drag, potentially causing them to burn up in the atmosphere if they fail to maintain their orbits.
Solar maximum period continues
“We are in a solar maximum period,” Dahl noted, part of an 11-year cycle when the Sun’s magnetic field undergoes a complete flip. According to NASA, such space weather activities are likely to continue through the remainder of 2024, extending into 2025 and possibly into 2026.
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