NASA describes how severe geomagnetic storms light up the night sky

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has issued a warning about a severe geomagnetic storm, classified as level G4. This storm is expected to affect power grids, GPS systems, and radio communications. Despite these potential disruptions, it offers an extraordinary opportunity to see vibrant auroras in high latitude areas, particularly in parts of Canada and the United States.

NASA astronaut Matthew Dominick, who is currently aboard the International Space Station (ISS), shared a stunning time-lapse video of the event. The footage shows the moon setting against a backdrop of striking red and green aurora, followed by a sunrise that casts a soft blue light on the Soyuz spacecraft. The time-lapse was captured using an Arri Zeiss 15mm lens mounted on a Nikon Z9, which was recently delivered to the ISS aboard the Cygnus cargo ship.

We are in the midst of an intense geomagnetic storm! 🌎🧲💥

A series of solar flares approaching Earth are causing widespread auroras. Here’s what NASA space weather analyst Carina Alden saw last night as she traveled through Michigan and Wisconsin! photo.twitter.com/qrpdkva4Vj

— NASA Sun & Space (@NASASun) August 12, 2024

Solar flares, also called coronal mass ejections (CMEs), are responsible for these geomagnetic storms. These flares occur when an unstable magnetic field on the sun’s surface sends charged particles flying into space. The intensity of these events is measured on a scale from G1 to G5, with G5 being the most severe. A G5 flare was recorded earlier this year, causing significant disruptions to power grids, GPS, and radio communications.

When these charged particles collide with Earth’s atmosphere, they interact with atmospheric gases, creating the northern lights, or aurora borealis. This current geomagnetic storm, classified as G2, is expected to last until August 14. During this time, the auroras will remain visible, creating a remarkable display of natural beauty.

While the storm presents certain challenges, such as potential impacts to technology and infrastructure, it also offers an opportunity to experience one of nature’s most awe-inspiring phenomena. The persistent auroras serve as a stunning reminder of the dynamic interactions between our planet and solar activity.