Yesterday, the Sun erupted in one of the strongest flares observed for quite some time: a whopping M9 class monster, unleashing a 'solar hurricane.' Ratings wise, flares are classed as (weakest to strongest) B, C, M, and X, with each having 9 separate sub classes ranging from 1-9. Taking this into account, a M9 flare is extremely strong, just a single step above the top 'X' rating. So, with the massive blast of energy moving out into space, many are asking the question: what does this mean for us here on Earth?
As of now, no one is really sure. Currently, it is known that the flare hit Earth at just past 10am EST, which means that tonight could offer millions of people another chance to see aurora, better known as the Northern Lights.
The aurora are caused when the energized particles from the Sun come into contact with Earth's upper atmosphere. When the charged energy hits Earth, the particles react and the atoms/molecules in Earth's upper atmosphere give off the photons we see as the Northern Lights. Why are the lights different colors? Each individual atom gives off a different glow when excited by the incoming solar wind. For us living in the Northern hemisphere, auroras are common in high latitudes such as Canada, the Scandinavian countries, and higher. For those at mid latitudes, such as Cleveland's 41degrees North, auroras don't find their way into our skies very often. However, with an M9 blast, there is an increased chance that we could see the Northern Lights.
Speaking of aurora, we do have reason to be hopeful. Just last October, the Sun produced a stunning, unexpected displayof aurora over Ohio that stretched, in some places, as far South as Texas. In May, 2005, I observed a stunning display of aurora over the Cleveland area, too.
As the last part of the puzzle, be sure to keep an eye on the Cleveland weather forecast and, for hour-by-hour cloud predictions, the Cleveland Clear Sky Clock. The bad news: at least in the Cleveland area, things are looking really lousy for tonight. Live somewhere else? Find a clock and see if it will be clear near you.
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