Solar storms recently caused vibrant displays of northern lights on , known as auroras, to appear in locations across Europe and the United States. Space weather experts confirmed that these solar bursts reached severe levels, causing vibrant northern lights to appear far from their usual arctic areas.
In Europe the lights were visible in countries like Hungary and the United Kingdom. Meanwhile in the United States, states as far south as Kansas, Colorado, and Texas saw the gorgeous lights as well.
Shawn Dahl from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration explained that these solar storms also affected Earths technology. In a video posted on X Dahl said the storms caused disruptions in Gps signals and the power grid. The increased solar activity prompted NASA to postpone the launch of Blue Origins new rocket, which was carrying Mars orbiters. The launch will remain on hold until conditions improve.
Over the past few days the sun has released several bursts of energy called coronal mass ejections. Two of these have already reached earth and at least one more is on its way, possibly arriving Wednesday. Forecasters warn that this upcoming storm could be the strongest yet and it might cause even more crazy auroras.
The sun is currently at the peak of its 11 year activity cycle, which explains why these displays are more frequent and widespread. Aurora lights, also known as the northern and southern lights usually appear near the poles because that’s where charges solar particles interact with earths atmosphere. But with the sun’s magnetic poles swapping places every 11 years these lights are now visible in unusual locations.
Scientists monitor solar activity closely but cannot predict storms months in advance they only issue warnings day before impact. To see auroras experts recommend visiting dark, quiet places away from city lights. Checking weather forecasts is also smart because clouds can obscure the view.
