Intense solar activity creates spectacular auroras visible at low latitudes, while also disrupting communications and delaying rocket launches
WASHINGTON: Intense solar activity is producing spectacular auroral displays at unusually low latitudes this week.
The US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration predicts these rare celestial events could continue through Thursday.
Massive ejections of solar particles called coronal mass ejections trigger geomagnetic storms when they reach Earth.
NOAA reported a level 4 geomagnetic storm occurred Tuesday, with another CME potentially creating similar conditions Thursday.
Skies as far south as Mexico glowed with faint pink and green hues Tuesday night.
People who normally must travel near the poles to see auroras were delighted by the unexpected displays.
Last year’s level 5 geomagnetic storm was the first in two decades, producing similarly spectacular Northern and Southern Lights.
Strong solar storms bring more than just beautiful light shows however.
They can disrupt communication systems, cause satellite malfunctions and overload power grids.
Blue Origin was forced to postpone its New Glenn rocket launch Wednesday due to solar storm risks.
Aurora enthusiasts should seek dark skies away from city lights for optimal viewing.
Cameras or smartphones using long-exposure settings may capture the lights even when invisible to the naked eye. – AFP
