The solar wind shock wave sent a flurry of high-speed particles that crashed into the magnetic field
The origin of the shock wave is precisenot known. However, scientists believe that it could have been caused by a coronal mass ejection from the sunspot AR3165. It caused at least eight solar flares on December 14th. This resulted in a brief blackout of radio communications over the Atlantic Ocean.
Geomagnetic storms occur when energeticSolar debris (mainly consisting of electrons, protons and alpha particles) is absorbed by the Earth's magnetic field. Solar particles sweep through the atmosphere near the poles, where the protective field is weakest. As a result, oxygen and nitrogen molecules release energy in the form of light, forming colorful auroras.
Storms can also create cracksin the magnetosphere that remain open for hours, allowing solar material to leak through and disrupt satellites, radio communications, and power grids.
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Cover: September 5, 2022 giant coronal mass ejection, image courtesy of NASA/STEREO