The number of sunspots on the sun’s surface reached a 23-year high in August, indicating that the sun’s explosive peak, or solar maximum, is well underway and likely to be more intense than initially predicted. This surge in sunspot activity is a clear sign of a more active solar cycle than expected, potentially leading to more frequent and powerful solar storms.
Scientists have observed a record-breaking number of sunspots in recent days, marking the highest daily sunspot number in over 20 years. This surge in solar activity has triggered powerful solar flares and coronal mass ejections (CMEs), resulting in geomagnetic storms on Earth, including stunning auroral displays.
After a spectacular display of auroras in May, caused by a barrage of solar storms from a massive sunspot, the sunspot has now become visible again. This means that we can expect more auroras, particularly during the new moon on June 6th. While the sunspot is expected to be most Earth-facing on June 6th, there is a chance that we could see auroras even before and after this date. To catch the best glimpse of the auroras, it is important to find a location far from city lights and obscuring clouds.
On May 10, auroras graced the skies from Mexico to South Africa, showcasing vibrant colors beyond their usual polar confinements. This rare spectacle, while captivating, also highlights the hidden dangers of powerful solar storms. Experts warn that these mesmerizing displays can mask disruptions to power grids, satellite damage, and radiation hazards. While the recent auroras resulted from intense solar explosions, scientists anticipate further activity in the coming weeks. The public is urged to appreciate these celestial wonders while remaining vigilant of their potential consequences.
AR3664, an enormous sunspot on the Sun’s surface, has erupted with numerous powerful solar flares, including a colossal X-class flare that caused shortwave radio blackouts in Europe and Africa. The giant sunspot, spanning over 124,000 kilometers, is 15 times wider than Earth and can be observed without magnification. While similar in size to the infamous Carrington sunspot of 1859, scientists do not currently anticipate a Carrington Event from ongoing solar activity.
