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Approaching Earth: Powerful Magnetic Disturbance Caused by Solar Activity, According to Scientists

Strong magnetic disturbance of G1 intensity observed on Earth, according to the Press Office of the Solar Astronomy Lab at the Space Research Institute of the Russian Academy of Sciences. This disturbance commenced amid heightened geomagnetic activity caused by solar activity.

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A magnetic disturbance is imminent on Earth, prompted by the sun's dynamic behavior
A magnetic disturbance is imminent on Earth, prompted by the sun's dynamic behavior

Approaching Earth: Powerful Magnetic Disturbance Caused by Solar Activity, According to Scientists

A weak geomagnetic storm has been recorded on Earth, with some stations reporting storms of G1-G2 levels. The storm, which occurred on September 2, is due to increased geomagnetic activity from a coronal hole and a small plasma ejection from weak flares on September 4.

The solar flare that caused this storm was classified as an M-class event, which is the fourth strongest category of solar flares. The event took place at 16:44 Moscow time and lasted about 13 minutes. The sunspot region responsible for this flare was named AR 3342.

The Sun's recent solar flare could potentially lead to stronger geomagnetic storms, but the current storm is not expected to reach class X levels, the most powerful category of solar flares. Class X flares can cause strong geomagnetic storms, but the most recent solar flare is not anticipated to reach these levels.

Despite the storm, no significant impact on spacecraft and energy systems is expected due to the storm. However, this could change if the storm intensity increases. The magnetosphere should return to a quiet state by Monday morning (September 8). The geomagnetic field is expected to remain elevated until the end of the weekend.

Solar flares are categorized into five classes based on the intensity of X-ray radiation: A, B, C, M, and X. An M-class solar flare is considered strong and can cause radio blackouts and minor radiation storms.

Geomagnetic storms are strong disturbances in Earth's magnetic field caused by solar flares. They can disrupt satellite operations, radio communications, and power grids. However, the current storm is globally weak, according to the RBC Group.

In a more extraordinary event, the Sun recently ejected its most powerful prominence in years. While this prominence did not directly contribute to the current geomagnetic storm, it serves as a reminder of the Sun's potential for powerful solar events.

As scientists continue to assess the impact of the storm on Earth's geomagnetic field, they will keep a close eye on the Sun for any further solar flares or prominences that could lead to stronger geomagnetic storms.

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