A powerful solar storm unleashed a “hailstorm” of charged particles that peppered satellites orbiting Earth, temporarily disrupting sensors and space observations. Triggered by a massive solar flare and coronal mass ejection, the event highlights the ongoing risks solar weather poses to satellite systems amid rising solar activity.
Recently, NASA’s Solar and Heliospheric Observatory (SOHO) captured vivid images of a “hailstorm in space,” as high-energy particles from a solar storm bombarded satellites around Earth. The storm originated from sunspot 4274, producing a massive solar flare and a coronal mass ejection (CME) that expelled charged particles at high velocities.
These particles, traveling at millions of kilometers per hour, slammed into spacecraft sensors, creating a dramatic “peppering” effect visible on SOHO’s cameras. While such solar storms are common during the Sun’s active phases, the intensity of this event was notable, with some energetic protons reaching Earth’s surface.
Satellites are engineered to withstand many solar events but prolonged exposure or extreme bursts can degrade electronics, interfere with communications, and affect GPS accuracy. Space weather forecasters are using advanced systems like NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center, the D3S sensor network, and the upcoming Virgil satellite mission to monitor and predict these solar threats.
As the Sun approaches its solar maximum phase around 2025-26, scientists urge increased vigilance and preparedness to protect vital space-based infrastructure from these cosmic hailstorms.
Key Highlights:
-
NASA’s SOHO captured “hailstorm” of particles from solar flare and CME
-
Sunspot 4274 produced intense solar storm impacting satellites
-
High-speed charged particles caused sensor disruptions in orbit
-
Some protons from the storm reached Earth’s surface
-
Satellites vulnerable to solar storms affecting electronics and communications
-
Advanced monitoring systems active for early warning and mitigation
-
Solar maximum expected near 2025-26 heightening space weather risks
Source: India Today, NASA, NOAA, ScienceDirect, Ground News