On March 23, 2021, Earth was hit by a severe solar storm, the strongest in the past six years. The storm was caused by a powerful Coronal Mass Ejection (CME) from the Sun, which sent a wave of charged particles towards Earth.
The CME was first detected by the Solar and Heliospheric Observatory (SOHO) satellite, which monitors the Sun for solar activity. The CME was classified as a G4-level storm, the second-highest level on the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) geomagnetic storm scale.
The storm caused a surge in the Earth’s magnetic field, which can disrupt satellite communications, navigation systems, and power grids. It also caused a spectacular display of the Aurora Borealis, or Northern Lights, in the night sky.
The storm was the strongest since 2015, when a G5-level storm hit Earth. That storm caused power outages in parts of Canada and the northern United States, and disrupted satellite communications.
Fortunately, this storm was not as severe, and no major disruptions were reported. However, it is a reminder of the power of the Sun and the potential for more severe storms in the future.
The Sun is currently in the middle of its 11-year cycle of activity, and the next peak is expected in 2025. Scientists are monitoring the Sun closely to prepare for the next peak, and to be ready for any potential storms.
In the meantime, we can enjoy the beauty of the Northern Lights, and be thankful that this storm was not as severe as it could have been.