Home
Science
Science News
Massive Coronal Hole on Sun Sends High Speed Solar Wind Toward Earth

Massive Coronal Hole on Sun Sends High-Speed Solar Wind Toward Earth

A massive coronal hole on the Sun is sending solar wind toward Earth, increasing aurora visibility in higher latitudes.

Written by Gadgets 360 Staff | Updated: 4 February 2025 21:27 IST

Massive Coronal Hole on Sun Sends High-Speed Solar Wind Toward Earth

Photo Credit: NASA SDO

The gigantic coronal hole is blasting high-speed solar wind toward Earth.

Click Here to Add Gadgets360 As A Trusted Source

Highlights

Huge coronal hole on the Sun is releasing high-speed solar wind
NOAA issues G1 geomagnetic storm watch for January 31- February 1
Auroras may intensify in higher latitudes due to solar wind impact

A massive coronal hole stretching over 800,000 kilometres has been detected on the Sun's surface, releasing high-speed solar wind toward Earth. This phenomenon is expected to intensify auroral activity on January 31 and February 1. The solar wind, travelling at speeds exceeding 500 kilometres per second, could lead to minor geomagnetic storm conditions. These disturbances may result in vibrant northern and southern lights in higher latitudes, enhancing visibility for aurora enthusiasts.

High-Speed Solar Wind Headed for Earth

As reported by space.com, according to spaceweather.com, coronal holes are regions where the Sun's magnetic field opens up, allowing solar wind to escape. These areas appear darker in extreme ultraviolet images due to the absence of confined hot gases. The current coronal hole, estimated to be more than 62 times Earth's diameter, is releasing a powerful stream of charged particles into space, some of which are expected to reach Earth's magnetosphere.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has issued a G1 geomagnetic storm watch for this period. The G-scale, ranging from G1 (minor) to G5 (extreme), categorises these disturbances based on their intensity. While G1 storms typically cause minor fluctuations in power grids and satellite operations, they can significantly enhance auroral displays.

Tesla Roadster Mistakenly Classified as Near-Earth Asteroid

Impact on Auroras and Space Weather Forecast

As solar wind collides with Earth's magnetic field, it energises oxygen and nitrogen atoms in the upper atmosphere, resulting in the dazzling auroras observed near the poles. Experts suggest that although G1 storms are not rare, their effects on auroral activity can vary. Space weather remains difficult to predict, meaning the intensity of upcoming displays is uncertain.

Comments

Get your daily dose of tech news, reviews, and insights, in under 80 characters on Gadgets 360 Turbo. Connect with fellow tech lovers on our Forum. Follow us on X, Facebook, WhatsApp, Threads and Google News for instant updates. Catch all the action on our YouTube channel.