Geomagnetic storm hits Earth. Scientists caught off guard

A powerful geomagnetic storm, triggered by a coronal mass ejection (CME) from the Sun, struck Earth’s magnetic field creating a spectacular aurora display visible across much of North America.
The solar event, which arrived approximately six hours later than initially predicted, sparked a severe G4-class geomagnetic storm, causing auroras to be sighted as far south as the Texas Panhandle.
A CME is a large expulsion of plasma and magnetic field from the Sun’s corona (the outer layer of the Sun’s atmosphere). CMEs are driven by changes in the Sun’s magnetic field, typically linked to solar flares or magnetic instabilities.
A Geomagnetic Storm happens when a CME or a high-speed solar wind stream interacts with the Earth’s magnetosphere, causing a temporary disturbance in the magnetic field.

The CME impact caught many space weather forecasters off guard.
Despite the delay, the intensity of the storm surpassed expectations, creating ideal conditions for aurora viewing. Skywatchers across the northern United States and Canada were treated to an extraordinary light show, with vibrant curtains of green, red, and purple dancing across the night sky.
Remarkably, the auroras managed to outshine the full Harvest Moon, which typically obscures fainter celestial phenomena. The brightness of the display allowed it to compete with the moonlight, offering a rare opportunity for observers to witness both astronomical events simultaneously.

The auroras managed to outshine the full Harvest Moon. (Photo: AFP)

As Earth continues to move through the CME’s wake, the geomagnetic storm’s intensity has been fluctuating. Current conditions are oscillating between G1 (Minor) and G3 (Strong) levels, indicating that further aurora sightings may be possible in the coming days, particularly in higher latitude regions.
As we approach the peak of the current solar cycle, expected in 2025, more frequent and intense solar storms are anticipated. These phenomena not only create breathtaking visual displays but can also affect satellite communications, power grids, and other technological systems.
Space weather agencies and astronomers continue to monitor solar activity closely, providing updates and forecasts to help both the scientific community and the general public prepare for and enjoy these celestial spectacles.