For some time now, solar flares have had some impact when they occur due to solar activity. A study shows that the upcoming peak is likely to occur sooner than expected.
The Sun has entered a new cycle of activity in recent months. The star of our solar system has awakened and caused so-called “solar storms”. This cycle, which is still a mystery to scientists, repeats itself every 11 years.
This means that the sun’s magnetic field causes an increase in its activity by reversing its polarity: spots appear, flares with coronal mass ejections occur.
Once ejected, these solar plasma and magnetic field particles can move towards the Earth and impact it. These solar storms have several consequences for our planet.
Impact on the Earth
Solar flares are classified according to their intensity and the strongest can cause power surge problems in certain electrical systems, radio and communications failures, changes to transformers, satellites can change trajectory or even the appearance of the Northern Lights.
These storms are monitored to avoid causing significant electrical and electromagnetic outages in large and populated areas.
A massive eruption last July caused a gigantic radio blackout.
A peak is expected in January
The sun is preparing to reverse its polarity. The upcoming peak of the Sun’s activity cycle could come much sooner than expected, ScienceAlert points out.
According to a paper published in November, astrophysicists predict that the “solar maximum” will be reached in January 2024.
Another publication had set the peak for July 2025: So the peak could occur well in advance.
At the beginning of the new year there is therefore a risk of very strong solar storms before the sun gradually slows down its activity.