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Powerful X-class solar flare caught on camera erupting from sun's surface
- On March 28, an X1.1-class solar flare erupted from a sunspot named AR4046 on the sun's surface, causing a radio blackout across two continents.
- This powerful solar flare, captured by the GOES-16 satellite, marked the first X-class flare released by the sun since early February.
- Solar flares are intense bursts of electromagnetic radiation classified on a scale of A, B, C, M, and X, with X-class flares being the most powerful.
- The flare triggered a radio blackout by ionizing Earth's upper atmosphere, disrupting high-frequency radio communications on the sunlit side.
- CMEs, such as the one following the flare, can cause geomagnetic storms and disturbances to satellites and power grids if they collide with Earth.
- While the CME from the March 28 solar flare is not expected to hit Earth, a new sunspot AR4048 is turning towards Earth and could release powerful flares.
- NOAA's Space Weather Prediction Center shared a video showing the solar flare and CME, emphasizing the potential impacts on communication and technology.
- Solar astrophysicists warn of the likelihood of further strong solar activity as the flare source region rotates to face Earth in the coming days.
- The article highlights the dangers of solar flares and CMEs in disrupting technology and communication systems on Earth.
- Experts note the importance of monitoring and preparing for potential impacts of solar eruptions to mitigate disruptions and ensure safety.
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