Particles from the Sun will reach Earth on April 16 and impact the planet’s magnetic field.

Scientists have observed two rare types of explosions on the Sun. As a result of these eruptions, a mass of radioactive particles ejected from the Sun will reach Earth on April 16 and hit the planet’s magnetic field. These explosions lead to the formation of plasma ejections called coronal mass ejections (CMEs). When CMEs reach Earth, they interact with the planet’s protective magnetic shield. The magnetic field prevents radioactive particles from reaching the Earth’s surface, thus protecting living organisms. The occurrence of a solar storm, known as a geomagnetic storm, from these events can result in the observation of northern lights, or auroras, extending to the mid-latitudes of Earth. However, CMEs can also disrupt satellites during solar storms, causing disturbances in GPS signals and radio communications that can paralyze communication on Earth. The US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) mentioned that the solar storm heading towards Earth could reach a G2 category. A G2 level indicates a moderately intense geomagnetic storm on NOAA’s five-point scale, ranging from G1 (mild) to G5 (severe). The effects of a storm of G2 intensity may include: – Disruption in radio communications in polar regions. – Observation of auroras (northern lights) in high and mid-latitudes (e.g., Canada, Scandinavia, US). – Minor deviations in satellite systems and GPS services, with occasional brief interruptions. – Occurrence of minor fluctuations or alerts in electrical grids, generally not leading to significant damage. – Increased radiation levels for astronauts in space and satellites. THE SUN REACHES SOLAR MAXIMUM

NOAA recently announced that the Sun has officially entered the “solar maximum” phase. The Sun is approaching the peak of an 11-year activity cycle. This suggests that more explosions on the star might occur soon, leading to an increase in the number of solar storms. Every 11 years, the Sun completes a cycle of activity, whether calm or stormy, before beginning a new one. The star entered its 25th cycle in 2019. The quieter periods of these cycles, with minimal sunspots and eruptions, are known as “solar minimum.” On the other hand, phases with increased sunspots and more frequent eruptions are termed as “solar maximum.”