After observing three bright spots on the surface of the Sun on July 16, Russian scientists predict that solar activity will surge today (July 17), posing a risk of disrupting shortwave communication.
Three solar flares observed by Russian scientists on July 16.
Fedorov Institute of Applied Geophysics in Moscow indicated that there may be a surge in X-rays, during which the number of protons will significantly increase, potentially disrupting shortwave radio waves.
X-ray flares represent the largest explosive events in the solar system and can generate prolonged radiation storms. Proton flares are a type of storm comprised of energetic solar particles, primarily protons.
Solar flares occur when strong magnetic fields within and around the Sun reconnect. According to the U.S. National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), these flares can affect the Earth’s magnetic field, damaging satellites and communication equipment.
In 2022, a geomagnetic storm triggered by a major solar radiation flare damaged 40 newly launched SpaceX satellites.
The Fedorov Institute reported observing three bright spots on the Sun on July 16, including one event lasting 14 minutes, which led to radio communication disruptions.
