On May 14, NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory captured a shocking astronomical phenomenon: the sun erupted into one of the most violent flares since 2005, reaching an astonishing magnitude of X8.7. Fortunately, however, the flare did not have a significant impact on the planet because it occurred on the far side of the Sun from the Earth.
Solar flares are divided into five grades according to their energy intensity: A, B, C, M, and X, with Class A being the mildest and Class X being the most violent. Since May, solar flares have entered an active phase, frequently showing their great power.
On May 3, an X1.6 flare erupted was already in the spotlight, followed by two more flares of X1.3 and X1.2 intensity on May 5. However, even more striking is yet to come. On May 6, a flare with an intensity of X4.5 erupted, releasing an incomparably astonishing amount of energy.
The eruption of a solar flare, like a giant sneeze from the sun, will instantly release a large amount of energy, which is not only a spectacular astronomical phenomenon, but also an important manifestation of solar activity. It is triggered by electromagnetic processes in the Sun's atmosphere, and each burst releases a huge amount of energy. These energies are so large that they can even reach the total energy of millions of strong volcanic eruptions, which is enough to make people feel the majesty and power of the sun.
So why do solar flares erupt so frequently? This is actually related to the sun's activity cycle. The Sun's active cycle is about 11 years, and during this cycle, the Sun's magnetic field changes, resulting in an increase in solar activity like flares.
In addition, the outbreak of solar flares is also closely related to the activity of sunspots. Sunspots are a dark area on the surface of the Sun that has a relatively low temperature but a very strong magnetic field. When the magnetic field of sunspots changes drastically, it is easy to trigger the eruption of flares.
However, the outbreak of solar flares can also have some effects on humans. During a flare outbreak, it can trigger a geomagnetic storm that can interfere with people's sleep quality and cause fatigue and discomfort. In addition, changes in the magnetic field may also affect a person's mood, causing mood swings.
In addition, geomagnetic storms can also interfere with satellite systems, navigation systems, etc., causing serious harm. For people with cardiovascular disease, geomagnetic storms may also have a certain impact on them, increasing health risks, which requires special attention. Therefore, when geomagnetic storms occur, people should reduce outdoor activities to reduce the risks they pose.