Solar Radiation Storms: A Look at the Past Two Hours

What is a Solar Radiation Storm?

Solar radiation storms are events that occur when a large-scale magnetic eruption, often causing a coronal mass ejection (CME) and associated solar flare, accelerates charged particles in the solar atmosphere. These charged particles travel through space and can interact with Earth's magnetic field, creating geomagnetic storms.

Monitoring Solar Activity

The plot on this page shows the most recent 24-hour period of solar activity, as observed by the Solar and Heliospheric Observatory (SOHO). The plot shows the number of X-rays emitted by the Sun over time. X-rays are a type of high-energy radiation that is produced by the Sun's corona, the outermost part of the Sun's atmosphere. The number of X-rays emitted by the Sun is a measure of its activity level.

Current Solar Activity

The current solar activity level is low. There have been no significant solar flares or CMEs in the past 24 hours. The Sun is expected to remain quiet for the next few days.

Impacts of Solar Radiation Storms

Solar radiation storms can have a variety of impacts on Earth, including: * Disruptions to power grids and communications systems * Damage to satellites and other electronic equipment * Health effects, such as increased risk of cancer and heart disease