NASA’s Solar Dynamics Observatory captured these pictures of the solar flares — as seen in the bright bursts in the left picture (May 8 flare) and the right picture (May 7 flare). The picture shows a subset of extreme ultraviolet light that highlights the extremely hot material in flares and which is colorized in orange. Credit: NASA/SDO
The Sun released two strong solar flares, with the first reaching its highest point at 9:41 p.m. ET on May 7, 2024, and the second reaching its highest point at 1:09 a.m. ET on May 8, 2024. NASA’s Solar Dynamics Observatory, which observes the Sun constantly, took images of these occurrences.
Solar flares are powerful bursts of energy that can disturb radio communications, electric power grids, and navigation signals. They also pose risks to spacecraft and astronauts. Both of the recent flares were classified as X1.0, indicating their significant intensity. The 'X-class' designation is used for the most intense flares, and the associated number describes their strength in more detail.
This depiction of the Solar Dynamics Observatory shows it above the earth as it faces toward the Sun. SDO is designed to help us understand the Sun’s influence on Earth and Near-Earth space by studying the solar atmosphere on small scales of space and time and in many wavelengths at the same time. Credit: NASA/Goddard Space Flight Center Conceptual Image Lab
NASA’s Solar Dynamics Observatory (SDO) is a mission dedicated to observing the Sun and its actions. Launched on February 11, 2010, SDO is a part of NASA’s Living With a Star (LWS) program, which aims to understand the causes of solar variability and its impacts on Earth. The observatory is equipped with a set of instruments that provide comprehensive measurements of the solar atmosphere and solar activity.
SDO’s primary objectives include comprehending the solar cycle, solar flares, and coronal mass ejections, as well as their effects on space weather and Earth’s environment. The observatory offers high-detail images of the Sun in 13 different wavelengths every 12 seconds, providing unparalleled insights into solar processes. Its data are essential for enhancing the ability to predict space weather events that can affect satellite operations, power grids, and communication systems on Earth.
