The Solar Storm is a problem, or rather we can say that it is a disturbance that takes place or occurs in the sun. The solar storm occurs due to strange incidents on the sun and causes atmospheric effects that directly affect Earth’s weather. When the solar storm hits the Earth from the sun, it hits in the form of northern lights, which can be seen in the nearby areas of the Arctic Circle.
In this article, we will cover Solar Storm, their types, disadvantages, and effects, and also learn about Solar Flares.
Table of Content
What is a Solar Storm?
A solar storm, also known as a space weather event, is a disturbance in the Sun’s activity that can have significant effects on the space environment and technology on and around Earth. These storms are primarily caused by the Sun’s magnetic activity and can manifest in several ways:
- Solar Flares
- Coronal Mass Ejections (CMEs)
- Solar Particle Events
Solar Flare
- A solar flare is a form of light that spreads like huge lights, which seems like the northern light seen in the Arctic Circle’s nearby areas. However, when it comes out of the state, it travels millions of miles per hour in plasma.
- They are known as Coronal Mass Ejections when they travel and come together and hit the Earth’s surface. It is also known as CMEs. It is the short version of Coronal Mass Ejections.
- When these Coronal Mass Ejections hit with force on the Earth’s surface, it causes Geomagnetic storms which quickly and can single-handled disturb the whole Earth’s surface, including the electronic lines and the grids, and also the satellite.
Scientists study, understand, and look after the whole process of solar storms. According to those skilled scientists, the solar storm that comes out of the sun in the form of a solar flare can appear based on an 11-year cycle. In these 11 years, solar storms can occur based on every day or every week. Scientists have also mentioned that there are high chances or possibilities that a solar storm should happen in the way of a solar flare during 2024, which is just an assumption. Nothing is stated clearly. It may happen, or it may not occur.
Types of Solar Storm
- Solar Flare – It occurs when the sun suddenly bursts and exposes a massive amount of heat which comes out as a sudden flash that is very powerful. However, it is not always mandatory that the solar flare will always consist of CMEs. It may consist of sometimes but not all the time.
- Coral Mass Ejection – A type of solar flash that comes from the sun in the form of light, including plasma. Along with the plasma, sometimes it also consists of the solar corona, which is accompanied by the magnetic field.
- Geomagnetic storm – A type of solar storm that occurs a few times meaning it is not a permanent or a steady shower. It is a temporary storm that causes disturbances on the surface of the Earth. The Geomagnetic Storm occurs when the solar wind on the wave of a cloud magnetic field interacts with the magnetic field on the Earth’s surface.
- Solar Particle Events – Also known as a solar proton event, occurs when particles emitted by the Sun are amplified either by CME shocks in interplanetary space or by flares that occur close to the Sun.
Disadvantages of Solar Storm
- The particles, very high in energy, when carried on by the CMEs, cause radiation which comes out as a poisoning gas and affects humans and animals.
- The Earth’s magnetic field gets disturbed when the CMEs strike the Earth’s surface.
- It has the power to dismantle a satellite and throw them directly on the face of the Earth.
- It is harmful to earthly technologies. and can cause a blackout.
- It is detrimental to the human body as it causes radiation.
Recent News Regarding Solar Storm
- A solar flare is causing a radio blackout over the Indian Ocean.
- After the appearance of a solar storm, up to 40 SpaceX satellites are falling out of orbit.
- In the latest scenario, a solar storm was witnessed in 2021; Space X was the first to observe the solar battery, which affected the loss of satellites in geomagnetic storms.
- According to NASA, a warning about an ‘impact’ on the near future has come up. However, the impact’s exact time and date are not predictable till now.
FAQs on Solar Storm
1. What is the primary cause of solar storms?
Solar storms are primarily caused by the Sun’s magnetic activity, which leads to the release of energy and charged particles. These disturbances can manifest as solar flares, coronal mass ejections (CMEs), and solar particle events.
2. What is the difference between a solar flare and a coronal mass ejection (CME)?
A solar flare is a sudden burst of intense energy and light, often appearing as a bright flash. It can be accompanied by X-rays and ultraviolet radiation. In contrast, a CME is a massive ejection of solar material, including plasma and magnetic fields, from the Sun’s corona. CMEs can affect the Earth’s magnetic field and cause geomagnetic storms.
3. How do solar storms impact Earth and its technology?
Solar storms can disrupt Earth’s technology by interfering with communication systems, navigation, power grids, and satellites. Geomagnetic storms caused by CMEs can lead to the appearance of the Northern and Southern Lights (auroras) at lower latitudes and affect electronic systems.
4. Is there a predictable pattern for solar storms?
Solar storms often follow an 11-year cycle, with periods of increased and decreased solar activity. During the active phase of this cycle, solar storms can occur more frequently. However, predicting the exact timing and intensity of individual storms remains a challenge for scientists.
5. What are the potential dangers or disadvantages of solar storms for humans and technology?
Solar storms can pose several risks, including radiation exposure to astronauts in space, disruption of Earth’s magnetic field, damage to satellites, and the potential for power outages on Earth due to grid disturbances. The particles and radiation associated with solar storms can be harmful to both technology and the human body.