Rare Quadruple Eruption Captured on NASA Video
Four solar flares erupted on the sun simultaneously on Monday night, showcasing the sun’s power near its peak. Video footage from NASA’s Solar Dynamics Observatory reveals the dramatic event.
No Immediate Threat to Earth, but Potential for Geomagnetic Storms
While the quadruple eruption poses no immediate danger to Earth, solar flares have the potential to cause geomagnetic storms that could impact GPS systems, radio communications, and even bring the northern lights further south.
According to experts, the rare event was likely triggered by a phenomenon called “sympathetic solar flaring,” where one eruption sets off a chain reaction of multiple flares across the sun’s surface.
Sun Reaches Peak Activity Near Solar Maximum
As the sun nears solar maximum, the peak of its 11-year cycle, scientists anticipate increased solar activity. The recent surge in solar flares and eruptions is expected as the sun approaches its hyperactive phase.
While the sun’s activity levels are currently high, experts are monitoring to determine if the sun has reached solar maximum. If not, peak activity is likely to occur within the next year, followed by a decline in solar events for several years.