Solar superflares are extremely strong solar flares with energies up to 10,000 times that of typical solar flares. A new study of 56,000 sun-like stars reveals that these events could occur about once per century, shedding light on the potential for rare but extreme solar outbursts.
The study found that our sun might produce superflares at a similar rate. If one happens, it could fry communications satellites and power grids. A single event could release massive amounts of energy, causing disruptions to global communications and infrastructure.
Solar flares are intense bursts of electromagnetic radiation from the sun, releasing immense energy over short periods. Superflares, on the other hand, are rare, higher-energy outbursts that could be much more powerful than the largest solar flares seen on the sun.
If a superflare were to hit Earth, it would cause an intense flash of X-ray and ultraviolet radiation, disrupting satellite navigation signals and heating the outer layers of our atmosphere. High-energy protons accelerated by shockwaves in the sun’s atmosphere could further cripple satellites, compromising global communications.
In a worst-case scenario, if the flare spawned a massive coronal mass ejection aimed at Earth, it could cause a violent geomagnetic storm, inducing electric currents that could paralyze power grids. The study warns that even the most extreme solar events are part of the sun’s natural repertoire and urges caution.
The study was published in the peer-reviewed journal Science, which found that other stars like our sun may experience powerful superflares about once per century. This research highlights the potential risks of rare but extreme solar outbursts and emphasizes the need for continued monitoring and preparedness.
Source: https://eu.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2024/12/12/astronomy-sun-superflares-solar-flares-relatively-common/76918387007