NOAA has issued a severe G4 geomagnetic storm alert, warning of potential power grid fluctuations and satellite disruptions. But there's a bright side—beautiful auroras are lighting up the skies!
Auroras Visible in North America
The geomagnetic storm is making auroras visible in high-latitude regions across parts of Canada and the United States.
NASA Captures Stunning Auroras
NASA space weather analyst Carina Alden witnessed breathtaking auroras while traveling through Michigan and Wisconsin.
Aurora from Space: ISS Timelapse
NASA astronaut Matthew Dominick aboard the ISS shared a captivating timelapse of the moon setting into red and green auroras, followed by a sunrise illuminating the Soyuz spacecraft.
What Causes Solar Flares and Auroras?
Solar flares, or coronal mass ejections (CMEs), occur when the Sun's magnetic field becomes unstable, sending charged particles toward Earth and creating stunning auroras.
CME Intensity Levels
CMEs are categorized by severity, from G1 (mild) to G5 (severe). A severe G5 flare was observed in May, which could disrupt power grids, GPS, and radio signals.
Capturing the Aurora on ISS
The auroras have been mesmerizing for the past few days, providing a perfect opportunity for NASA's crew to test a new lens recently delivered to the ISS via the Cygnus spacecraft.
How Auroras Are Formed
When charged particles from CMEs collide with Earth's atmosphere, they interact with gases, causing the sky to light up with the northern lights, or aurora borealis.
Auroras Continue Until August 14
A moderate G2 geomagnetic storm is predicted to last until August 14, allowing auroras to remain visible across various parts of the world.
Witness the Magic!
Don't miss the chance to see these spectacular auroras. Keep an eye on the skies and enjoy the show!
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