STATES CHRONICLE – In awe of their recent discovery, NASA explains hole on the surface of the Sun and its possible consequences on Earth. The images captured by the orbiting Solar Dynamics Observatory have revealed a very dark and large spot at one of the poles of the sun, which experts have described as a coronal hole.
Coronal holes have been defined as empty areas that appear in the Sun’s corona; hence their names. These holes have different sizes and forms mainly because the corona is constantly changing. Spots usually appear in regions where the temperature is colder and where the plasma is thinner, scientists have explained.
Like most of the activity on the surface of the Sun, coronal holes are characterized by a powerful magnetic field. The latter circles coronal holes and leads to stronger solar winds. The aurora borealis phenomenon that terrestrials can witness at the Earth’s poles is a consequence of solar winds entering the atmosphere of our planet.
NASA experts were not surprised to see that there is a coronal hole on the surface of the Earth as these are rather frequent. It was the massive size of the newly captured hole that surprised them. Judging by the images they have obtained so far, it appears that the coronal hole is as big as 50 Earths.
The Earth could soon be hit by a powerful solar wind as a result of the newly formed solar hole. Researchers are now trying to estimate the effects that the solar wind will have for Earth’s inhabitants. Previous episodes of solar winds attacking the surface of the Earth have led to power outages and disrupted communications.
NASA warns that airports and naval institutions will be particularly affected by the presence of the massive coronal hole. Consequently, these institutions should take all the necessary measures to prevent power outages.
The current coronal hole was first spotted on October 10th, NASA has confirmed. The Solar Dynamics Observatory has used a special ultraviolet wavelength to distinguish the dark area on the surface of the Sun. The space administration has also furnished a large collection of auroras pictures, which are said to be in close connection with the coronal hole.
The presence of the coronal hole is now being carefully studied by NOAA, who is interested in determining its effects on Earth. For this reason they will continue to monitor auroras in the Arctic region, as well.
Image source: www.nasa.gov