We Have HUGE Double Prominence Eruptions!

Get ready for a stunning display from our Sun! We're treated to a phenomenal event featuring not one, but two massive solar prominence eruptions captured recently by NOAA/GOES-19. These events showcase the raw power and dynamic nature of our star.

What Exactly Are Solar Prominences?

Solar prominences are enormous, loop-like structures that often stand out brightly against the dark backdrop of space when viewed from the edge of the solar disk. Despite appearing incredibly bright and hot, they are actually much cooler and denser than the surrounding plasma in the Sun's corona.

These majestic formations are sculpted by the Sun's complex magnetic fields, frequently taking on the shape of loops with both ends anchored to the Sun's surface. Prominences are truly gigantic, extending tens of thousands of kilometers into space and can persist for days or even months.

When prominences erupt and break apart, they can give rise to Coronal Mass Ejections (CMEs) – powerful bursts of plasma and magnetic field from the Sun's corona.

When Did This Happen?

The first part of the video footage captures 7 hours of activity from July 14th, between 15:00 and 22:00 UT. The second segment spans 6 hours from July 15th, between 5:00 and 11:00 UT. This extended observation period highlights the sustained nature of these solar events.

Do These Eruptions Affect Earth?

A common question that arises when witnessing such powerful solar activity is whether it directly impacts our planet. The answer is yes, though not always in ways we might immediately perceive.

These types of eruptions are a significant contributor to geomagnetic storms. When charged particles from these events reach Earth, they interact with our planet's magnetic field, a phenomenon generated by the convective currents in our molten iron-nickel outer core. This interaction is what causes the spectacular aurora borealis (Northern Lights) and aurora australis (Southern Lights).

While we don't feel these events in the traditional sense, they can affect our technology. Geomagnetic storms can disrupt radio communications, GPS signals, and even pose a risk to power grids and satellites. Fortunately, Earth's protective magnetic field shields us from the most direct and harmful effects of these solar outbursts.

It's a reminder of the constant, powerful dance happening between our Sun and Earth, shaping our skies and influencing our technological world.