In a significant celestial event, the sun unleashed a class X1.1 solar flare early on December 29, 2024. This solar flare stands among the most potent of solar explosions, potentially marking the last major flare of the year.
The solar flare emerged from the northwest section of the sun’s Earth-facing side at precisely 2:18 a.m. EST (0718 GMT). It generated a substantial radio blackout in various Earth regions, as reported by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Space Weather Prediction Center (SWPC). The center is currently analyzing whether a coronal mass ejection (CME) accompanied the solar flare, which could have further implications. If confirmed, a CME might intensify northern lights displays and interfere with satellites and power systems on Earth.
Coronal mass ejections represent large-scale eruptions of solar material. When directed towards Earth, they have the potential to amplify auroras and disrupt the functionality of satellites and power grids.
While this X1.1 solar flare was notably powerful, it was eclipsed in magnitude by an X9 flare on October 3, 2024. The October eruption was recorded as the third largest since 2011 and ranked fifth since 2005. Observations of the recent flare were facilitated by NOAA’s GOES-16 weather satellite, a part of a joint NOAA-NASA initiative to monitor solar flares and other space weather phenomena continuously.
The context of this event centers on the ongoing solar activity cycle known as Solar Cycle 25, currently in its peak phase. Scientists and solar observers are keeping a keen eye on developments, as such cycles are indicators of potential aurora activity and solar storms.
As 2024 draws to a close, the recent X1.1 solar flare exemplifies the dynamic and unpredictable nature of solar activity. Continuous monitoring by NOAA and NASA underscores the importance of understanding and preparing for the impacts of such solar behaviors on our planet.
Source: Space
