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13/09/2005
Solar flare activity causes geomagnetic storm
A geomagnetic storm is currently in progress and has already produced a brighter than usual aurora visible from northern hemisphere countries.
Astronomers say that the geomagnetic storm caused by a solar flare, which originated from sunspot 798, is relatively mild, but still may have the capability to affect radio communications.
There have already been seven X-class solar flares this month. The last peak, as measured from Earth-based instruments hit on Sunday September 11, but on September 7, one of the largest events ever measured, categorised as an X17 flare, was recorded. Following a lull yesterday there has been renewed activity detected in the Earth's magnetosphere as charged particles from the sun hit the Earth's magnetic field.
Scientists recently introduced a measurement for solar flares based on their x-ray "brightness". The measurements are grouped into three categories C-class, M-class and the largest, X-Class, which have the potential to cause some disruption on Earth. The largest recorded, estimated to be X28, occurred in November 2003.
The radiation storms produced when the energetic particles strike the Earth's magnetic field cause visible aurora at the poles. The associated radio energy may cause radio communications blackouts.
(SP/KMcA)
Astronomers say that the geomagnetic storm caused by a solar flare, which originated from sunspot 798, is relatively mild, but still may have the capability to affect radio communications.
There have already been seven X-class solar flares this month. The last peak, as measured from Earth-based instruments hit on Sunday September 11, but on September 7, one of the largest events ever measured, categorised as an X17 flare, was recorded. Following a lull yesterday there has been renewed activity detected in the Earth's magnetosphere as charged particles from the sun hit the Earth's magnetic field.
Scientists recently introduced a measurement for solar flares based on their x-ray "brightness". The measurements are grouped into three categories C-class, M-class and the largest, X-Class, which have the potential to cause some disruption on Earth. The largest recorded, estimated to be X28, occurred in November 2003.
The radiation storms produced when the energetic particles strike the Earth's magnetic field cause visible aurora at the poles. The associated radio energy may cause radio communications blackouts.
(SP/KMcA)
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Flare Attack Boy 'Critical'
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Flare Attack Boy 'Critical'
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Swine Flu Drug 'Less Effective' On Children
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Swine Flu Drug 'Less Effective' On Children
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Northern Ireland WeatherThis Evening and Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
