NEW YORK (AP) — As the sun remains highly active, the phenomenon of northern lights is expected to be visible in more places than ever before, according to space weather specialists. This year’s strong solar storms have created vibrant auroras that reach much further south than they typically do, painting the skies with brilliant shades of pink, purple, green, and blue.
The current solar cycle, which peaks approximately every 11 years, has reached its maximum phase. This means that solar activity, including spectacular northern lights displays, is on the rise and is predicted to continue for at least another year. However, experts from NASA and the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) state that the exact timing of when this solar activity will peak will only be determined months afterward.
According to Kelly Korreck of NASA, this cycle has led to an increase in colorful auroras appearing further south than usual, with even more likely in the upcoming months. Although these solar storms create stunning light shows, they can also disrupt power supplies and communication networks temporarily. To mitigate the impact, NOAA provides advance warnings to operators of power plants and spacecraft about potential solar outbursts.
Earlier this year, NOAA issued a rare severe geomagnetic storm warning, indicating that a powerful storm hit Earth, the most intense in over twenty years. This storm resulted in captivating light displays observed throughout the Northern Hemisphere. Additionally, scientists noted the largest solar flare ejected by the sun during the same month, although fortunately, Earth was unaffected.
In a recent event, a significant solar storm delighted stargazers outside of typical viewing areas, causing auroras to be visible in unexpected locations, including Germany, the United Kingdom, New England, and even New York City.
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