A stunning solar storm lit up the night skies over Europe and North America this weekend, captivating stargazers with its vibrant, psychedelic colors. First spotted on Friday night, this solar event is being hailed by experts as one of the most intense on record.
But what exactly caused this spectacular display? Solar storms are powerful releases of energy from the sun, often involving plasma and ions—charged particles that can interfere with Earth's magnetic field. Despite the sun's blazing average temperature of about 5,500 degrees Celsius, these storms can unleash tremendous energy as they interact with our planet's atmosphere.
Such intense solar activity can have various impacts, from creating dazzling auroras to influencing satellite operations and communication systems. As scientists continue to monitor the sun's behavior, understanding these phenomena is crucial for preparing for and mitigating potential effects on our technologically driven world.
Stay tuned for our quick guide on how solar storms work and what they mean for our planet.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com