The number of solar flares has sharply increased. A new active region emerging from the far side of the star is noticeably picking up pace: 19 events have been recorded over the past day, including the first M-class flare in many days. The last time flares of this class were observed was on July 30, according to the Solar Astronomy Laboratory of IKI RAS.
The group of spots has already received the number 4513 in the catalog and is visible from Earth on the left edge of the Sun. Visually, it looks modest, but scientists do not rule out that the main part of the structures is still hidden, like an iceberg. Sunspots are formed by powerful magnetic fields originating in the star's interior at a depth of about 200 thousand kilometers.
Forecasts are still cautious: most experts agree that the active center is passing through its peak, and further strengthening is unlikely. However, final conclusions can be drawn after the spots fully emerge on the visible side.
The geomagnetic situation remains elevated – Earth continues to be in a stream of solar wind with high speed and temperature. At the same time, geomagnetic disturbances have not been recorded for almost 20 hours: the planet, it seems, has adapted to external conditions. Individual surges are possible until Friday, and by the weekend, space weather should return to normal.
Read more on the topic:
- The sun continues to emit flares one after another: 10 events have already been recorded
- IKI RAS scientists warned of high solar activity
- Final Chord: A Powerful Explosion Occurred on the Far Side of the Sun, But Earth Got Lucky