On Friday, an X3.9 solar flare erupted, triggering a geomagnetic storm with potential for strong auroras and radio interference.

On Friday, an X3.9 solar flare erupted, causing a geomagnetic storm that may result in strong auroras and radio interference. The establishment of Mt Stromlo Observatory 100 years ago was driven by the need to study solar events like these, such as the massive Carrington Event of 1859. Solar flares release charged particles and gas that impact Earth's atmosphere, causing the gas to glow, creating auroras, similar to how neon signs work.

May 11, 2024
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