Short Wave When The Sun Erupts
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Feb 21, 2024 Dr. Samaiyah Farid, a solar physicist from Yale University, shares her expertise on the Sun's activity during the current solar maximum. She discusses the historical Carrington event of 1859, illuminating its dramatic effects, including dazzling auroras and havoc on telegraph systems. Dr. Farid emphasizes the potential dangers of modern solar storms to our electrical grid and stresses the importance of preparedness. She also highlights the thrill of safely observing the Sun and how future solar events can inspire awe in the cosmos.
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The Carrington Event
- In 1859, Richard Carrington observed a massive solar flare, initially mistaking it for an instrument malfunction.
- This flare caused auroras worldwide, sparked telegraph machines, and even powered an unplugged telegraph, revealing the sun's impact on Earth.
Solar Activity and Earth
- Carrington's observation linked auroras to solar activity, advancing our understanding of space weather.
- The sun's current solar maximum, part of its 11-year cycle, raises concerns about potential impacts on Earth.
Solar Flares and CMEs
- Solar flares are sudden bursts of energy and particles from the sun, sometimes accompanied by coronal mass ejections (CMEs).
- CMEs propel superheated gas into space, potentially impacting Earth.