Coronal mass ejections (CMEs) are huge clouds of highly energetic plasma that the Sun throws into space at great speed. They are responsible for the formation of magnetic storms and the most spectacular aurora borealis (unless, of course, the CME reaches the Earth’s vicinity).
A powerful solar flare. This is a great chance for the aurora borealis. Even from Poland
Since Monday, scientists have already observed several solar flares from CMEs, and one of them (spotted on Wednesday) has a good chance of providing us with great space weather for observing the aurora borealis. Wednesday’s flare had a class of M9.8, which means it was just shy of the class of the strongest observed flares. What’s more, it is heading perfectly towards Earth and will reach our planet at night from Thursday to Friday.
This means, above all, an incredible treat for aurora lovers. On this night we can count on the occurrence of very strong aurora borealis, not only far to the north of our planet. Such strong flares along with powerful coronal mass ejections usually cause wonderful light shows in the sky, even at the latitudes where Poland is located.
A moment ago, from the active area 3500 on the Sun, there was an M9.8 class flare, ALMOST X class! The area is currently facing centrally towards Earth. Over the next several hours, there should be confirmation of the observation (or not) of a coronal mass ejection from this phenomenon. If it happens, we can expect great aurora conditions on Friday
– wrote Karol Wójcicki, popularizer of astronomy and creator of the “With my head in the stars” channel, on Facebook on Wednesday.
As if that were not enough, scientists do not rule out that Wednesday’s CME will catch up with previous mass ejections, also heading towards Earth, and connect with them – . A phenomenon called “cannibal CME” may then occur, which may cause a strong G3 or G4 class magnetic storm. Therefore, if the weather is good, we will have the perfect opportunity to observe this unusual phenomenon also in Poland.
This may be the next spectacular aurora borealis you will see. Remember that to see the Northern Lights, it is best to go outside the city and choose a vantage point as far away from any light sources as possible. We should look for the aurora above the northern horizon.
Source: Gazeta
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