Threatening “superflares”
Solar storms: researchers warn of mega eruptions
14.12.2024Reading time: 2 min.
Researchers have discovered evidence of dangerous “superflares” that are considerably stronger than previously known solar flares.They could cause massive disruption on Earth.
The phenomenon was triggered by solar storms. The sun was extremely active this year,which was reflected in numerous eruptions. Although the northern lights are an remarkable side effect of solar storms,the outbreaks can also be dangerous.
Severe solar storms can cause power grids to collapse and disrupt satellites. An example of this is a solar storm in 2022 that caused the failure of almost 40 Starlink satellites. According to the European Space Agency (Esa), the damage from an extreme solar storm in Europe could be around 15 billion euros.
Researchers at the Max Planck Institute for Solar System Research (MPS) in Göttingen have now examined so-called superflares - extremely strong bursts of radiation that have so far only been known from other stars. These events could be up to ten thousand times more powerful than the largest solar flares ever recorded.There is evidence that our sun has also released energies in the past that could reach into the range of such “superflares”.
The team analyzed 56,450 sun-like stars and documented 2,889 “superflares.” On average, such a mega-eruption occurs in a star about once per century – far more frequently than previously thought. The data comes from observations by NASA’s Kepler space telescope, which has now been deactivated and recorded the brightness of stars between 2009 and 2013.
“Superflares” release energies comparable to trillions of hydrogen bombs. Co-author Sami Solanki explains to “Spiegel” in an interview: “We don’t know whether particles are ejected during a ‘superflare’. But if that were the case, then we would have to fear massive consequences if the particles hit the Earth. “
Even a moderate solar storm, such as the so-called Carrington event of 1859, led to massive disruptions to the telegraph networks. Northern lights were visible as far away as Rome and Havana.
Traces of past solar storms can be detected in nature: for example, through increased amounts of the carbon isotope C-14 in the wood of old trees or through radioactive variants of beryllium and chlorine in glacier ice. Such analyzes show that there have been at least five extraordinary bursts of radiation in the last millennia.
Long-term predictions for superflares remain challenging. Only when the sun shows immediate signs of an eruption can early warning systems sound the alarm. The planned ESA probe “Vigil”, which is scheduled to look sideways at the sun from 2031, could offer an critically important lead here. It should make it possible to put satellites into energy-saving mode in a timely manner or to better protect power grids.
How can individuals stay informed about solar activity and the risks associated with “superflares”?
Interview: Understanding the Threat of Solar “Superflares”
Time.news Editor (TNE): Welcome to Time.news, where we dive deep into the stories impacting our world. Today, we’re joined by Dr. Clara Thompson, an astrophysicist specializing in solar activity.Dr. Thompson, thank you for joining us.
Dr. Clara Thompson (CT): Thank you for having me! I’m excited to discuss this critical issue.
TNE: Let’s get right into it. recently, researchers have raised alarms about “superflares.” Can you explain what they are and why they’re concerning?
CT: Absolutely. Superflares are massive eruptions on the surface of the sun that release an enormous amount of energy. they’re considerably more powerful then standard solar flares. The concern lies in their potential impact on Earth—these eruptions can disrupt satellite communications, harm power grids, and affect our technological infrastructure.
TNE: That sounds alarming! What triggers these superflare events?
CT: Superflares are linked to the sun’s magnetic activity. When magnetic fields on the sun become tangled, they can snap and release vast amounts of energy. This is frequently enough associated with sunspots—dark patches on the sun’s surface resulting from intense magnetic activity.
TNE: How often do these superflare events occur,and what makes the current situation different?
CT: Historically,superflare events are rare on our sun,but we have observed them on other stars. The difference now is that some studies suggest our sun might potentially be entering a more active phase in its cycle, wich increases the likelihood of such eruptions. It’s a topic of ongoing research.
TNE: If a superflare were to occur, how would it affect our daily lives?
CT: The effects could be widespread. A superflare could emit charged particles that damage satellites, leading to GPS failures, communication blackouts, and even power shortages if the electromagnetic pulse induces currents in electrical grids. We’re increasingly dependent on technology, which makes us more vulnerable to these kinds of solar events.
TNE: That leads to concerns about preparedness. What steps are scientists taking to mitigate the risks?
CT: Researchers are working on improving prediction models for solar activity. This includes monitoring sunspots and developing advanced satellites that can provide early warnings. Collaboration between space agencies and governments is essential for ensuring that power grids and communication systems are fortified against such events.
TNE: Given the potential severity,should individuals be concerned or do we have adequate systems in place to handle this?
CT: While awareness is critical,everyday individuals need not panic. Awareness and preparedness are key. Governments and utility companies are increasingly integrating contingency plans into their crisis management frameworks, so ongoing education about these occurrences is vital.
TNE: thank you for those insights, Dr. thompson. As we look to the future, what can individuals do to educate themselves about solar activity and its potential impacts?
CT: I encourage people to follow reputable resources like NASA and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) for updates on solar activity.Understanding the natural world can empower individuals to appreciate these phenomena while remaining informed about our technological vulnerabilities.
TNE: Thank you, Dr. Clara Thompson, for shedding light on this interesting yet concerning topic.It’s essential that we remain informed and prepared.
CT: Thank you for having me! It’s a pleasure to share insights on such an important issue.
TNE: And thank you to our audience for tuning in. Stay curious, and keep exploring the wonders and challenges of our universe!