Four powerful class M flares recorded on the Sun: risk of magnetic storms

The main source of activity is large groups of sunspots on the star

Solar activity is increasing: four class M flares were recorded on February 2, according to the Institute of Applied Geophysics (IPG).

The most powerful flare reached level M5.1 at 17:04 Moscow time and lasted ten minutes. Flares M1.4, M1.2 and M2.7 were also recorded.

Experts note that solar activity continues to grow, approaching class X - the most powerful level. The main sources of flares remain large groups of spots in the northern hemisphere of the Sun.

Although no coronal mass ejections directed towards Earth have yet been recorded, any powerful flares could potentially affect the planet's magnetosphere.

As a reminder, solar flares are classified according to the power of X-ray radiation: A, B, C, M and X, where each subsequent category is ten times stronger than the previous one. Emissions of solar plasma during such events can cause magnetic storms, affecting communications, navigation and energy systems.

Earlier www1.ru reported that seven flares of varying power were recorded on the Sun.

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