NASA has shared photos of massive explosions on the Sun that have unleashed solar flares

New Delhi:

NASA recorded two eruptions on the Sun’s surface that unleashed powerful solar flares on Friday and Saturday. NASA’s Solar Dynamics Observatory precisely documented solar flares that sent ripples of electromagnetic energy toward Earth.

„On May 10-11, 2024, the Sun released two strong solar flares, peaking on May 10 at 9:23 PM EDT and May 11 at 7:44 AM EDT. NASA’s Solar Dynamics Observatory captured images of the events, which were classified as X5. 8 and as X1.5-class flares,” NASA said in a statement.

The Sun released two strong solar flares on May 10-11, 2024, peaking on May 10 at 9:23 PM EDT and May 11 at 7:44 AM EDT. NASA’s Solar Dynamics Observatory captured images of the events, which were classified. X5.8 and X1.5-class combustion. https://t.co/nLfnG1OvvEpic.twitter.com/LjmI0rk2Wm

— NASA Sun & Space (@NASASun) May 11, 2024

As the Earth succumbed to the impact of these solar storms, what followed was a cosmic spectacle. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has issued warnings as the first of several coronal mass ejections (CMEs) hurtles toward our planet.

For sky watchers around the world, this celestial drama unfolds in stunning auroras that paint the sky with vibrant hues of pink, green and purple. From Northern Europe to Tasmania, Australia, sky watchers have been able to capture stunning photos of the rare phenomenon.

Solar storms, while mesmerizing, pose potential risks to technological infrastructure. Fluctuations in magnetic fields induced by geomagnetic storms can disrupt power grids, communications networks, and satellite operations.

Elon Musk, founder of SpaceX and Starling, acknowledged the challenges posed by solar storms, noting the strain on satellite operations. Despite the concerns, Musk assured that SpaceX’s satellites are well-equipped to handle a solar storm.