ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Commission announced on Saturday that Earth is currently surrounded by a solar storm. This phenomenon occurs when the Sun releases massive bursts of energy through solar flares and coronal mass ejections (CMEs), leading to solar storms.
According to information from Wonderopolis, these solar storms involve streams of electrically charged particles and magnetic fields traveling towards Earth at speeds reaching approximately three million miles per hour. Suparco highlighted that this influx of material and energy from the Sun has set off geomagnetic storms along Earth’s trajectory.
Consequently, satellites, power grids, and space stations are facing potential risks due to this intense solar activity.
A Suparco spokesperson detailed that three CMEs are currently en route to Earth. The initial two, classified as M-class solar flares, were released on August 7. While these initial CMEs were relatively minor, the third flare, identified as an X1.3-class, is significantly more potent. The spokesperson noted that additional M-class flares have also been emitted from the Sun’s surface.
The impacts of these solar emissions, including plasma and magnetic waves, are expected to reach Earth within the next three to four days. As the Sun is at the peak of its activity cycle, the planet faces increased risks from the resultant storms. These storms can lead to radio blackouts, disruptions to satellite operations, and interference with cellular phone and GPS networks.
In summary, the ongoing solar storm poses a significant threat to various technological systems and infrastructure on Earth.
As the situation develops, monitoring and preparedness will be crucial to mitigate the potential effects on communication and navigation systems, as well as on the functioning of satellites and power grids.
