60% chance of hitting Earth': Scientists warns of another solar radiation storm this week

Produced by: Tarun Mishra

Credit: Wikimedia Commons/ NASA Goddard Space Flight Center

Another Solar Storm

Scientists have issued a warning about a looming solar radiation storm set to impact Earth this week, following last week's severe solar storms.

Credit: NASA

Parker Spiral Phenomenon

The Sun's intense magnetic activity has accelerated charged particles, leading to the formation of Parker Spiral structures that can redirect solar flares towards Earth.

Credit: NASA

Impact of Charged Particles

Charged particles from solar flares can disrupt satellite communications, pose radiation hazards to astronauts, and potentially interrupt power grids.

NOAA Forecast

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has predicted a 60% chance of a solar radiation storm beginning tomorrow.

Credit: NASA

Solar Flare Characteristics

NOAA forecasters anticipate intense solar flares, known as X-class flares, associated with the upcoming solar radiation storm.

Credit: NASA/GSFC/SOHO/ESA

Comparison with  Previous Storms

The upcoming radiation storm differs from previous geomagnetic storms, such as Sunspot AR3664, which directly impacted Earth last weekend.

Sunspot AR3664's Path

Sunspot AR3664 is expected to pass through a portion of the Parker Spiral, directing high-speed radiation towards Earth's orbit.

Potential Effects

NOAA warns of possible radio communication fades at polar regions and satellite disruptions, as experienced by farmers in the American Midwest.

Precautionary Measures

With the potential for disruptions to GPS equipment and satellite operations, precautionary measures may be necessary to mitigate the impact of the impending solar radiation storm.