latest solar flare activity sept 5 2012

Joint USAF/NOAA Report of Solar and Geophysical Activity
SDF Number 249 Issued at 2200Z on 05 Sep 2012

IA.  Analysis of Solar Active Regions and Activity from  04/2100Z
to 05/2100Z:  Solar activity was low. Region 1564 (S14E01 -
Esi/beta-gamma) produced occasional C-class flares including a C6 at
05/0347Z and a C7/Sn at 05/0806Z, neither of which were associated
with significant radio emission. Region 1564 showed gradual spot and
penumbral decay during the period, but retained a beta-gamma
configuration due to polarity mixing in the vicinity of its
intermediate spots. Region 1560 (N04W58 - Eai/beta-gamma-delta)
showed minor spot loss in its trailer portion during the period. It
retained a delta within its intermediate spots, but the delta
appeared to be dissipating. The remaining spotted region were
unremarkable. No new regions were numbered. No Earth-directed CME
activity occurred during the period.

IB.  Solar Activity Forecast:  Solar activity is expected to be low
through the period (06 - 08 September) with a chance for an isolated
M-class flare during days 1 - 2.

IIA.  Geophysical Activity Summary 04/2100Z to 05/2100Z:
Geomagnetic field activity ranged from quiet to major storm levels
with a brief period of severe storm levels at high latitudes. An
interplanetary shock passed the ACE spacecraft at 04/2203Z
indicating the arrival of the CMEs observed on 02 September. Field
activity increased to major storm levels during 05/0000 - 0300Z
following the shock, then decreased to minor storm levels during
05/0300 - 0600Z. A further decrease to active levels occurred during
05/0300 - 0900Z. Quiet to unsettled levels occurred during the rest
of the period with active to minor storm levels detected at high
latitudes.

IIB.  Geophysical Activity Forecast:  Geomagnetic field activity is
expected to be at quiet to unsettled levels through the period (06 -
08 September) with a chance for active levels on day 1 due to
possible weak coronal hole high-speed stream effects.

III.  Event Probabilities 06 Sep-08 Sep
Class M    25/25/20
Class X    01/01/01
Proton     01/01/01
PCAF       green

latest current solar flare storm activity july 9 2012

Joint USAF/NOAA Report of Solar and Geophysical Activity
SDF Number 191 Issued at 2200Z on 09 Jul 2012

IA.  Analysis of Solar Active Regions and Activity from  08/2100Z
to 09/2100Z:  Solar activity was low.  Region 1515 (S15W89) produced
the largest event of the period, a C7/Sf at 09/0830Z.  Region 1520
(S17E33) continued its growth phase in area coverage, spot count and
magnetic complexity, but remained relatively quiet through the
period.  New Region 1521 (S22E21) was numbered as a D-type group.  A
large filament eruption was observed in the SW quadrant at about
09/0930Z.  At the time of its eruption, the 23 degree long filament
was centered near S35W32.  No Earth-directed CMEs were observed
during the previous 24 hours.

IB.  Solar Activity Forecast:  Solar activity is expected to be
moderate with a chance for X-class events for the next three days
(10 - 12 July).

IIA.  Geophysical Activity Summary 08/2100Z to 09/2100Z:
The geomagnetic field was at unsettled to minor storm levels with
high latitude major storm intervals.  This activity was most likely
a result of CME effects from the 04 July M1 event.  ACE solar data
indicated wind velocities ranged between 400 to 450 km/s.  The Bz
component of the interplanetary magnetic field was generally south
throughout the period ranging between -5 to -10 nT from about
09/0600Z through the end of the period.  Interplanetary field
strength was at 10 to 12 nT through most of the period.  A greater
than 10 MeV proton event at geosynchronous orbit began at 09/0130Z,
reached a maximum of 19 pfu at 09/0430Z and ended at 09/1445Z.  This
weak SEP event was most likely associated with the 08 July M6/1n
flare from Region 1515.

IIB.  Geophysical Activity Forecast:  The geomagnetic field is
expected to be at mostly quiet to unsettled levels with isolated
active periods on day one (10 July) due to possible weak effects
from the 06 July CME.  A return to mostly quiet conditions is
expected for days two and three (11 - 12 July).

III.  Event Probabilities 10 Jul-12 Jul
Class M    80/80/80
Class X    25/25/25
Proton     10/10/10
PCAF       yellow

IV.  Penticton 10.7 cm Flux
Observed           09 Jul 174
Predicted   10 Jul-12 Jul  165/160/155
90 Day Mean        09 Jul 125

V.  Geomagnetic A Indices
Observed Afr/Ap 08 Jul  015/011
Estimated Afr/Ap 09 Jul  018/027
Predicted Afr/Ap 10 Jul-12 Jul  013/015-007/010-005/005

VI.  Geomagnetic Activity Probabilities 10 Jul-12 Jul
A.  Middle Latitudes
Active                20/10/05
Minor storm           05/01/01
Major-severe storm    01/01/01
B.  High Latitudes
Active                15/15/15
Minor storm           30/20/15
Major-severe storm    25/10/05

latest current solar flare storm activity july 9 2012

Joint USAF/NOAA Report of Solar and Geophysical Activity
SDF Number 191 Issued at 2200Z on 09 Jul 2012

IA.  Analysis of Solar Active Regions and Activity from  08/2100Z
to 09/2100Z:  Solar activity was low.  Region 1515 (S15W89) produced
the largest event of the period, a C7/Sf at 09/0830Z.  Region 1520
(S17E33) continued its growth phase in area coverage, spot count and
magnetic complexity, but remained relatively quiet through the
period.  New Region 1521 (S22E21) was numbered as a D-type group.  A
large filament eruption was observed in the SW quadrant at about
09/0930Z.  At the time of its eruption, the 23 degree long filament
was centered near S35W32.  No Earth-directed CMEs were observed
during the previous 24 hours.

IB.  Solar Activity Forecast:  Solar activity is expected to be
moderate with a chance for X-class events for the next three days
(10 - 12 July).

IIA.  Geophysical Activity Summary 08/2100Z to 09/2100Z:
The geomagnetic field was at unsettled to minor storm levels with
high latitude major storm intervals.  This activity was most likely
a result of CME effects from the 04 July M1 event.  ACE solar data
indicated wind velocities ranged between 400 to 450 km/s.  The Bz
component of the interplanetary magnetic field was generally south
throughout the period ranging between -5 to -10 nT from about
09/0600Z through the end of the period.  Interplanetary field
strength was at 10 to 12 nT through most of the period.  A greater
than 10 MeV proton event at geosynchronous orbit began at 09/0130Z,
reached a maximum of 19 pfu at 09/0430Z and ended at 09/1445Z.  This
weak SEP event was most likely associated with the 08 July M6/1n
flare from Region 1515.

IIB.  Geophysical Activity Forecast:  The geomagnetic field is
expected to be at mostly quiet to unsettled levels with isolated
active periods on day one (10 July) due to possible weak effects
from the 06 July CME.  A return to mostly quiet conditions is
expected for days two and three (11 - 12 July).

III.  Event Probabilities 10 Jul-12 Jul
Class M    80/80/80
Class X    25/25/25
Proton     10/10/10
PCAF       yellow

IV.  Penticton 10.7 cm Flux
Observed           09 Jul 174
Predicted   10 Jul-12 Jul  165/160/155
90 Day Mean        09 Jul 125

V.  Geomagnetic A Indices
Observed Afr/Ap 08 Jul  015/011
Estimated Afr/Ap 09 Jul  018/027
Predicted Afr/Ap 10 Jul-12 Jul  013/015-007/010-005/005

VI.  Geomagnetic Activity Probabilities 10 Jul-12 Jul
A.  Middle Latitudes
Active                20/10/05
Minor storm           05/01/01
Major-severe storm    01/01/01
B.  High Latitudes
Active                15/15/15
Minor storm           30/20/15
Major-severe storm    25/10/05

latest current solar flare storm activity july 6 2012

latest current solar flare storm activity july 6 2012

X1.1 Solar Flare / Minor Radiation Storm
Sunspot 1515 has been teasing us with countless M-Class solar flares and it finally did what it has been threatening to do over the past several days. A major X1.1 Solar Flare was detected at 23:08 UTC. This event triggered a 10cm Radio Burst and a Type IV Sweep Frequency Event. The blast did generate a Coronal Mass Ejection, but it looks to be headed south and to the west. This should have little impact on Earth. The protons blasted away from the flare site are currently streaming past Earth and a S1 Minor Radiation Storm is in progress.

ALERT: Type IV Radio Emission
Begin Time: 2012 Jul 06 2322 UTC
Description: Type IV emissions occur in association with major eruptions on the sun and are typically associated with strong coronal mass ejections and solar radiation storms.

SUMMARY: 10cm Radio Burst
Begin Time: 2012 Jul 06 2304 UTC
Maximum Time: 2012 Jul 06 2306 UTC
End Time: 2012 Jul 06 2306 UTC
Duration: 2 minutes
Peak Flux: 520 sfu
Description: A 10cm radio burst indicates that the electromagnetic burst associated with a solar flare at the 10cm wavelength was double or greater than the initial 10cm radio background. This can be indicative of significant radio noise in association with a solar flare. This noise is generally short-lived but can cause interference for sensitive receivers including radar, GPS, and satellite communications.

Added 7/6/2012 @ 18:35 UTC
Aurora Watch
Currently our Geomagnetic Field is fairly quiet and visible aurora would be possible only around the polar regions. An increase in geomagnetic activity will be possible starting tomorrow should a CME sweep past our planet as predicted. A potential for minor geomagnetic storming watch was issued today by the NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center.

WATCH: Geomagnetic A-index of 20 or greater predicted
NOAA Scale: Periods reaching the G1 (Minor) Level Likely
Valid for UTC Day: 2012 Jul 07

Updated 7/7/2012 @ 04:55 UTC
Solar Update / Large Sunspots
Solar activity is currently strong with an X1.1 Solar Flare detected around Sunspot 1515. A Coronal Mass Ejection was produced, but does not look to be Earth direcfted. While Sunspot 1515 currently has all the attention, we should also continue to monitor the large new sunspot that rotated into view off the southeast limb. This region did produce an M1.3 Solar Flare at 18:55 UTC Friday.

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Large New Sunspot (Saturday) - SDO

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NOAA Solar Report - [SIDC Report

Prepared jointly by the U.S. Dept. of Commerce, NOAA,
Space Weather Prediction Center and the U.S. Air Force.

Updated Jul 06 2200 UTC

Joint USAF/NOAA Report of Solar and Geophysical Activity
SDF Number 188 Issued at 2200Z on 06 Jul 2012

IA. Analysis of Solar Active Regions and Activity from 05/2100Z
to 06/2100Z: Solar activity was moderate. Region 1515 (S18W50)
continued to produce M-class flares, the largest an M2/Sn at
06/0140Z. The region continued to grow to 900 millionths and
maintained a beta-gamma-delta magnetic configuration. Region 1513
(N15W65) showed slight decay and is now considered an Hsx-alpha type
spot group.

IB. Solar Activity Forecast: Solar activity is expected to be
moderate with a chance for X-class flares for the next three days
(07-09 July).

IIA. Geophysical Activity Summary 05/2100Z to 06/2100Z:
The geomagnetic field was quiet to unsettled during the past 24
hours. The greater than 2 MeV electron flux at geosynchronous orbit
reached high levels during the period.

IIB. Geophysical Activity Forecast: The geomagnetic field is
expected to be unsettled to active with a chance for minor storm
conditions on days one and two (07-08 July) due to combined effects
from the CMEs observed on 03 and 04 July. Quiet to unsettled
conditions are expected on day three (09 July) as effects from the

Report of Latest Solar Wind Storm Activity May 5 2012

Two M-Class Flares / Sunspot 1476
Solar activity increased to moderate levels thanks to newly numbered Sunspot 1476. This new region rotated into view off the northeast limb and has so far produced a pair of M-Class flares. The latest event was an M1.3 at 23:01 UTC Saturday evening. solar activity is again increasing.

Solar Update
Solar activity increased somewhat due to the new sunspot rotating into view off the northeast limb. This region should be numbered 1476 on Saturday. There will be a chance for an M-Class event. All other regions have been fairly quiet with the exception of a C2.0 flare around Sunspot 1471 in the southern hemisphere. 

Updated May 05 2200 UTC

Joint USAF/NOAA Report of Solar and Geophysical Activity
SDF Number 126 Issued at 2200Z on 05 May 2012

IA.  Analysis of Solar Active Regions and Activity from  04/2100Z
to 05/2100Z:  Solar activity was at moderate levels. New Region 1476
(N09E67) produced several C-class flares along with an M1/Sn at
05/1329Z. The regions proximity to the limb makes spot
classification difficult, however, it is currently considered a
Dko-beta type group. Region 1469 (S26W77) continues to produce low
level C-class activity as it rotates around the west limb. A model
run was completed after the forecast was issued yesterday to include
the CME observed off the southwest limb yesterday. It was determined
that the CME has a slight Earth-directed component. A second CME,
first visible in STEREO A COR2 imagery at 05/0309Z, appeared to be
associated with a C1 flare from Region 1469 observed at 04/2350Z.
Although both CMEs have a weak Earth-directed component, neither are
expected to cause significant geomagnetic activity. A third CME
associated with a C2/Sf flare from Region 1470 (S15W31) observed at
05/0639Z, first became visible in SDO AIA imagery at approximately
05/0600Z. Due to the source location, it is probable that the CME is
Earth-directed and a model run is currently in progress to determine
geoeffectiveness.

IB.  Solar Activity Forecast:  Solar activity is expected to be low
with a chance for M-class flares for the next three days (06-08
May).

IIA.  Geophysical Activity Summary 04/2100Z to 05/2100Z:
The geomagnetic field was quiet during the past 24 hours.

IIB.  Geophysical Activity Forecast:  The geomagnetic field is
expected to be quiet on day one (06 May). Quiet to unsettled
conditions are possible on days two and three (07-08 May) due to
weak effects from the CMEs observed on 04 May.

Report of Latest Solar Wind Storm Activity May 4 2012

Joint USAF/NOAA Report of Solar and Geophysical Activity
SDF Number 124 Issued at 2200Z on 03 May 2012

IA.  Analysis of Solar Active Regions and Activity from  02/2100Z
to 03/2100Z:  Solar activity has been at low levels for the past 24
hours. Multiple C-class events were observed during the period with
the largest event being a C2/Sf x-ray flare from new Region 1475
(N05E61). Even though Region 1475 is magnetically classified as an
alpha group, it remains responsible for a majority of todays
activity. There are currently seven sunspot regions on the disk,
with many regions stable or in a waning phase. No Earth directed
CMEs were observed in the past 24 hours.

IB.  Solar Activity Forecast:  Solar activity is expected to be at
low levels with a slight chance for M-class events for the next
three days (04 - 06 May).

IIA.  Geophysical Activity Summary 02/2100Z to 03/2100Z:
The geomagnetic field has been at mostly quiet levels for the past 24
hours.

IIB.  Geophysical Activity Forecast:  The geomagnetic field is
expected to be at mostly quiet levels for the next three days (04 -
06 May).

Latest Solar Flare Activity Update April 27 2012

Solar Update
Solar activity increased to moderate levels with an M1.0 solar flare detected Friday morning around Sunspot 1466 in the northern hemisphere. Sunspot 1465 in the south produced a minor C2.4 flare at 11:02 UTC. Sunspot 1469 located in the southeast quadrant, appears to be growing on Friday. Finally, A new region looks to be hiding on the southeast limb and will soon begin to rotate into view. There will continue to be a small chance for an isolated M-Class flare.

Sunspot Update: The region hiding on the southeast limb is now rotating into view and a Sunspot is  
Joint USAF/NOAA Report of Solar and Geophysical Activity SDF Number 118 Issued at 2200Z on 27 Apr 2012 IA. Analysis of Solar Active Regions and Activity from 26/2100Z to 27/2100Z: Solar activity was at moderate levels due to an M1/1n flare at 27/0824Z from Region 1466 (N11W38). Other activity consisted of single, low-level C-class flares from Regions 1459 (S19W88), 1465 (S17W53), 1467 (N11E32), 1469 (S24E28) and 1466. During the period, Region 1465 developed into a beta-gamma-delta magnetic configuration while the remaining regions showed little change. Numerous non-Earth directed CMEs were observed off the SW limb over the past 24 hours, all originating from old Region 1462 (S25, L=139) which rotated around the west on 24 April. IB. Solar Activity Forecast: Solar activity is expected to be low with a slight chance for M-class activity for the next three days (28 - 30 April). IIA. Geophysical Activity Summary 26/2100Z to 27/2100Z: The geomagnetic field was at quiet to unsettled levels. Through the period, ACE solar wind velocities steadily decreased from about 560 km/s to near 500km/s while the Bz component of the interplanetary magnetic field was variable between +/-4 nT. The greater than 2 MeV electron flux at geosynchronous orbit was at high levels throughout the period. IIB. Geophysical Activity Forecast: The geomagnetic field is expected to be at predominately quiet levels for the next three days (28 - 30 April).

Report of latest solar flare activity April 26 2012

Report of latest solar flare activity April 26 2012

IA. Analysis of Solar Active Regions and Activity from 25/2100Z
to 26/2100Z: Solar activity was at low levels. Region 1460 (N15W93)
and Region 1465 (S18W39) both produced C1 x-ray events at 25/2242Z
and 26/1723Z respectively. Both had associated CMEs but neither are
expected to be geoeffective. Three consecutive CMEs appeared on
LASCO/C2 imagery at 26/0924Z, 26/1148Z, and 26/1638Z. All three
were around the west limb and are not expected to be geoeffective.

IB. Solar Activity Forecast: Solar activity is expected to remain
low with a slight chance for M-class activity for the next three
days (27 - 29 April).

IIA. Geophysical Activity Summary 25/2100Z to 26/2100Z:
The geomagnetic field started the period at minor storm levels, but
fell to quiet levels and remained mostly quiet for the remainder of
the period. This activity was attributed to Coronal Hole High Speed
Stream (CH HSS) effects. Solar wind speeds have steadily decreased
from approximately 730 km/s to approximately 560 km/s. The Bz
component of the interplanetary magnetic field has remained fairly
neutral with minor fluctuations between +3 and -5 nT. Overall, the
total field fluctuated between +2 and +8 nT. The greater than 2 MeV
electron flux at geosynchronous orbit was at high levels throughout
the period.

IIB. Geophysical Activity Forecast: The geomagnetic field is
expected to be at quiet to unsettled levels with isolated active
periods for day one (27 April) as CH HSS effects begin to wane.
Days two and three (28 -29 April) are expected to be mostly quiet.



A long lasting Geomagnetic Storm that reached very close to the Strong G3 Level took place Monday night and early Tuesday morning. Visible Aurora was seen in many locations and Ham Radio operators were able to make numerous contacts via the Aurora on the 6 meter (50mhz) amateur radio band. This storm was due to a sharply south pointing component of the Interplanetary Magnetic Field (IMF) that allowed the solar wind to flow in and generate aurora. Things are now starting to return to quieter levels.

UPDATE: Minor Geomagnetic Storm conditions (Kp=5) did again flare up on both Tuesday and Wednesday evenings. The solar wind is currently near 500 km/s. Be on the lookout for Aurora at very high latitudes.

Updated 4/26/2012 @ 13:40 UTC
Solar Update
Solar activity is currently at very low levels. Sunspot 1460 just rotated onto the western limb and out of direct Earth view. Sunspot 1459 which continues to decay, will also join 1460 on the limb by the weekend. Elsewhere, Sunspot 1465 did have a Beta-Gamma-Delta magnetic configuration, but has itself decayed and is no longer a threat for strong solar flares. There will continue to be a chance for C-Class flares.

Joint USAF/NOAA Report of Solar and Geophysical Activity
SDF Number 117 Issued at 2200Z on 26 Apr 2012

IA. Analysis of Solar Active Regions and Activity from 25/2100Z
to 26/2100Z: Solar activity was at low levels. Region 1460 (N15W93)
and Region 1465 (S18W39) both produced C1 x-ray events at 25/2242Z
and 26/1723Z respectively. Both had associated CMEs but neither are
expected to be geoeffective. Three consecutive CMEs appeared on
LASCO/C2 imagery at 26/0924Z, 26/1148Z, and 26/1638Z. All three
were around the west limb and are not expected to be geoeffective.

IB. Solar Activity Forecast: Solar activity is expected to remain
low with a slight chance for M-class activity for the next three
days (27 - 29 April).

IIA. Geophysical Activity Summary 25/2100Z to 26/2100Z:
The geomagnetic field started the period at minor storm levels, but
fell to quiet levels and remained mostly quiet for the remainder of
the period. This activity was attributed to Coronal Hole High Speed
Stream (CH HSS) effects. Solar wind speeds have steadily decreased
from approximately 730 km/s to approximately 560 km/s. The Bz
component of the interplanetary magnetic field has remained fairly
neutral with minor fluctuations between +3 and -5 nT. Overall, the
total field fluctuated between +2 and +8 nT. The greater than 2 MeV
electron flux at geosynchronous orbit was at high levels throughout
the period.

IIB. Geophysical Activity Forecast: The geomagnetic field is
expected to be at quiet to unsettled levels with isolated active
periods for day one (27 April) as CH HSS effects begin to wane.
Days two and three (28 -29 April) are expected to be mostly quiet.

Latest solar flare report April 17 2012

Joint USAF/NOAA Report of Solar and Geophysical Activity
SDF Number 108 Issued at 2200Z on 17 Apr 2012

IA. Analysis of Solar Active Regions and Activity from 16/2100Z
to 17/2100Z: Solar activity has been low for the past 24 hours. A
long duration C1 flare was observed from new Region 1461 (N13E66) at
17/0809Z. An associated CME became visible in LASCO C2 imagery at
17/0800Z but does not appear to be Earth-directed. A filament
eruption occurred at approximately 17/1330Z near N24W40. The
associated CME was first visible in LASCO C2 imagery at 17/1424Z but
is not expected to be geoeffective. New Region 1460 (N16E26) was
also numbered overnight and is considered a Dso-beta type spot
group. Region 1459 (S15E40) has shown a significant decrease in
areal coverage and is now a Dao-beta type spot group.

IB. Solar Activity Forecast: Solar activity is expected to be low
with a slight chance for an M-class flare for the next three days
(18-20 April).

IIA. Geophysical Activity Summary 16/2100Z to 17/2100Z:
The geomagnetic field was mostly quiet during the past 24 hours. The
greater than 2 MeV electron flux at geosynchronous orbit reached
high levels during the period.

IIB. Geophysical Activity Forecast: The geomagnetic field is
expected to be mostly quiet on days one and two (18-19 April). Quiet
to unsettled conditions are expected with a chance for isolated
active periods on day three (20 April) due to a recurrent Solar
Sector Boundary Crossing (SSBC).

Solar flare and Geophysical Activity update April 2012

Solar Update
Solar activity remains very low with only B-Class X-Ray activity detected mostly around Sunspot 1450 and region 1451. The leader spot located within 1450 did show some growth over the past 24 hours. There will be a chance for C-Class flares.

Prepared jointly by the U.S. Dept. of Commerce, NOAA,
Space Weather Prediction Center and the U.S. Air Force.

Joint USAF/NOAA Report of Solar and Geophysical Activity
SDF Number 094 Issued at 2200Z on 03 Apr 2012

IA. Analysis of Solar Active Regions and Activity from 02/2100Z
to 03/2100Z: Solar activity has been very low for the past 24 hours.
Region 1450 (N16W04) produced two B4 flare events, one at 02/2220Z
and the other at 03/1228Z. A weak CME associated with a filament
eruption near N30E11, became visible on LASCO C2 imagery at
02/2348Z. This CME has a northerly trajectory and is not expected
to be geoeffective.

IB. Solar Activity Forecast: Solar activity is expected to be very
low with a chance for C-class flares for the next three days (04-06
April).

IIA. Geophysical Activity Summary 02/2100Z to 03/2100Z:
The geomagnetic field was at quiet levels for the past 24 hours.

IIB. Geophysical Activity Forecast: The geomagnetic field is
expected to be quiet to unsettled on days one and two (04-05 April)
due to a coronal hole high speed stream becoming geoeffective on 04
April, followed by the anticipated arrival of a weak CME associated
with the filament eruption that occurred at 02/0224Z. Day three (06
April) is expected to return to quiet levels.

III. Event Probabilities 04 Apr-06 Apr
Class M 01/01/01
Class X 01/01/01
Proton 01/01/01
PCAF green

Solar Flare Impact in 2012

The Sun revolves at a 7.25 degree angle just like the Earth. However, due to its imperfect rotation behavior, the sun tends to "wobble", disrupting the internal core and making it highly unstable. The internal disruption eventually works its path to the outer surface and shoots out as a solar flare. Solar flares are little bits of the sun that launches out from the sun, giving off hazardous radiation and tremendous electrical power that go out into space like a bullet.

Solar Cycles

Just like how the earth has 4 seasons throughout the year, the sun goes through "solar cycles" taking 11 years to complete. The previous cycle was at its peak in 2001. Every cycle has a stage when the flares are most powerful, often occurring close to the solar equator, known as the "solar maximum", with the next massive one expected to take place in December 21, 2012 - a date predicted by the Mayan Calendar! Recently, the sun has been going through a long period of quiet solar activity as scientists have concluded that the sun is closing in on the final cycle. The quiet period alarmed NASA scientists and as they issued warnings that we will be seeing a seriously violent sun storm soon.

Impact to Earth

Many solar flares that hit earth were minor, however, small flares can still be threatening. For example, in 1989 a flare struck North America and wiped out many electric grids in the United States and Canada resulting in blackouts. Solar flares are also known to affect human life because a huge flare that's predicted to strike in 2012 would completely take out satellites, telecommunications, computers, and GPS.

Solar flares 2012 predictions are one of many cataclysmic events slated for the year of uncertainty. Always be informed on the latest news and learn ways to prepare and survive the 2012 predictions doomsday.

Solar Flare latest news daily

Updated Mar 29 2200 UTC

Joint USAF/NOAA Report of Solar and Geophysical Activity
SDF Number 089 Issued at 2200Z on 29 Mar 2012

IA. Analysis of Solar Active Regions and Activity from 28/2100Z
to 29/2100Z: Solar activity has been at low levels. There were six
C-class flares over the past 24 hours with five of these originating
from old Region 1429 (N19, L=299) which is just beginning to rotate
into view as of forecast issue time. The largest flare was a C7
that occurred at 29/0953Z and originated from old Region 1429. New
Region 1449 (S18W17) was numbered today and is a D-class spot group.

IB. Solar Activity Forecast: Solar activity is expected to be low
with a chance for an isolated M-class flare. Old Region 1429 will
rotate onto the visible disk, increasing the probabilities for
M-class flares.

IIA. Geophysical Activity Summary 28/2100Z to 29/2100Z:
The geomagnetic field was quiet for the past 24 hours.

IIB. Geophysical Activity Forecast: The geomagnetic field is
expected to be quiet for the next three days (30 March - 1 April)

Latest Report of Solar Flare

Joint USAF/NOAA Report of Solar and Geophysical Activity
SDF Number 087 Issued at 2200Z on 27 Mar 2012

IA. Analysis of Solar Active Regions and Activity from 26/2100Z
to 27/2100Z: Solar activity has been at low levels. Region 1444
(N21W17) produced a C5/1f flare at 27/0308Z. Region 1442 (N12W13)
produced a C2 flare at 26/2338Z and a C1/Sf flare at 27/0430Z. SOHO
LASCO observed a full asymmetric halo CME at 26/2312Z which was
associated with Type II & Type IV radio sweeps. This CME was
determined to be a backsided event and should not be geoeffective.

IB. Solar Activity Forecast: Solar activity is expected to be low
with a chance for an isolated M-class flare. Old Region 1429 (N19,
L=299) is expected to return to the solar disk midday on 29 March,
which should increase M-class flare probabilities. New Region 1447
(S25W55) was numbered today and is a small C-type spot group.

IIA. Geophysical Activity Summary 26/2100Z to 27/2100Z:
The geomagnetic field was at quiet to unsettled levels. ACE data
indicate a solar sector boundary crossing during the period.

IIB. Geophysical Activity Forecast: The geomagnetic field is
expected to be at quiet to unsettled levels for 28 March to 29
March, due to a favorably positioned negative polarity coronal hole.
Quiet levels are expected on the third day (30 March).

Latest Report of Solar Flare and Geophysical Activity

Updated Mar 26 2200 UTC

Joint USAF/NOAA Report of Solar and Geophysical Activity
SDF Number 086 Issued at 2200Z on 26 Mar 2012

IA.  Analysis of Solar Active Regions and Activity from  25/2100Z
to 26/2100Z:  Solar activity has been at low levels.  Region 1442
(N12W01) produced a C1/Sf flare at 26/0642Z.

IB.  Solar Activity Forecast:  Solar activity is expected to be low
with a chance for an M-class flare.  Old Region 1429 (N19, L=295) is
expected to return late on day 2 (28 March), further increasing the
possibility of an M-class event.

IIA.  Geophysical Activity Summary 25/2100Z to 26/2100Z:
The geomagnetic field was at quiet levels.

IIB.  Geophysical Activity Forecast:  The geomagnetic field is
expected to be mostly quiet on 27 March, increasing to unsettled to
active conditions on 28 and 29 March due to a solar sector boundary
followed by a negative polarity coronal hole.

Solar Update
Solar activity has been fairly quiet with only low level C-Class flare detected. New Sunspot growth appears to be taking place on Monday in the vicinity of region 1442. This is located just to the south of AR1444. A couple of small plasma clouds are seen in the latest STEREO Behind COR2 images and may be the result of prominences lifting off of the Sun. None appear to be Earth directed at this time.

Old faithful Sunspot 1429, just produced a strong solar flare on the farside of the Sun. The time of the flare was around 22:45 UTC. This region is about 2 days away from returning onto the visible solar disk off the eastern limb. The image below shows the bright flash captured by STEREO Behind and a large, fast moving Coronal Mass Ejection (CME) was produced. Stay Tuned as we may be in for more activity in the weeks ahead.

Solar and Geophysical Activity Report of 06 Mar 2012

Updated Mar 06 2200 UTC

Joint USAF/NOAA Report of Solar and Geophysical Activity
SDF Number 066 Issued at 2200Z on 06 Mar 2012

IA.  Analysis of Solar Active Regions and Activity from  05/2100Z
to 06/2100Z:  Solar activity was high. There were five M-class x-ray
events during the past 24 hours, all from Region 1429 (N17E31). The
largest event was an M2/1n 06/1241Z. None of these events was
associated with a CME that would be expected to be geoeffective.
Region 1429 dominates the disk in area (about 1010 millionths), and
exhibited growth during the period. The trailer portion showed the
most development but has separated a bit from the main cluster of
spots. The central portion is magnetically complex and shows
multiple deltas as well as strong shear along a pair of east-west
polarity inversion lines. Region 1428 (S17E08) also showed some
growth during the period (area of 280 millionths) but is simple
magnetically and was relatively quiet.

IB.  Solar Activity Forecast:  Solar activity is expected to be
moderate. Additional M-class events from Region 1429 are likely.
There is also a chance for a major flare and/or proton producing
event from Region 1429 during the next three days (07-09 March).

IIA.  Geophysical Activity Summary 05/2100Z to 06/2100Z:
The geomagnetic field ranged from quiet to active levels with
isolated minor storm periods at high latitudes. ACE solar wind
measurements of the interplanetary magnetic field showed steady
strengthening during the period and there were numerous intervals of
weakly southward Bz. The greater than 10 MeV proton enhancement
continued throughout the period and reached a peak value of 4 PFU at
06/1335Z. The flux appeared to be on a slow declining trend at the
end of the period. The greater than 2 MeV electron flux at
geosynchronous orbit reached high levels during the period.

IIB.  Geophysical Activity Forecast:  The geomagnetic field is
expected to be unsettled to active with a chance for minor storm
periods during the next 24 hours (07 March). The increase in
activity is expected due to combined effects from a co-rotating
interaction region with the CME that occurred on 04 March
(associated with the M2 x-ray event). Later in the day additional
effects are expected due to a glancing blow from the full halo CME
associated with the X1 x-ray event that occurred on 05 March.
Predominantly unsettled levels with a chance for active periods are
expected for the second day (08 March) as effects from the
anticipated disturbance should diminish. Predominantly quiet levels
are expected for the third day (09 March).

III.  Event Probabilities 07 Mar-09 Mar
Class M    80/80/80
Class X    30/30/30
Proton     30/30/30
PCAF       green

The strongest solar storms outbreak in five years - Autos

NASA's solar dynamics observation satellite measurements to five years of the most violent

solar radiation outbreak, arrived in earth can cause moderate geomagnetic storms, influence on

earth satellite communication and power supplies. According to the observation of solar

dynamics observation satellite, aside from a small radiation storm outside, the sun eruption

coupled with a flare and a halo material eruption.

The national weather service space weather prediction center project coordinator Cardiff, bill

mourinho tower said: "this time the outbreak started very dramatic." He pointed out that

medium solar flare in 6 at 1am edt 41 points (the GMT at 5 a.m. 41 points) peak. "We first

observed flare scale doesn't big, in the ensuing eruption process, we observed high-energy

particle radiation and large-scale halo material eruption. Can you observed out from the sun

all the material, the surface is very spectacular sight."

The sun dynamics observation satellite launched in 2010, filming the sun outbreaks of high-

definition pictures and video. According to the observation, the sun eruption in visually

spectacular, because of the earth, not positive influence on the earth can be very small. NASA

said in a statement: "rising particle formation huge mushroom, then fell back to the sun to

the surface, seems covered nearly half of the sun to the surface."

Randolph points out, intentions space weather analysts are eyeing the sun eruption, to

determine whether it leads to the sun and earth happened between magnetic field collide. Sun

in about 150 million km distance to the left. He said in an interview with the French media:

"part of our job is to monitor the sun and determine whether an outbreak of substance is

flying to the earth, because the material basically is jet with gas and magnetic. In a day or

two, we will see time some of the substance in the sun injection effect, form the earth. We do

not believe that geomagnetic storms this will be a very severe geomagnetic storms, but

strength can still reach the medium level."

Space weather prediction center, said the sun eruption triggered in 8 small to medium-sized

geomagnetic storms, from about the GMT 18 PM. Any geomagnetic storms activities will end in 24

hours. The national weather service said: "the sun radiation during the storm there are lots

of high-energy protons, this type of activity since since December 2006 was the first

observed."

A total of 12 satellite and spacecraft to the moon, NASA surveillance sunlight layer survey of

the instrument to be able to carry the orbiter to radiation that can be measured and analyzed

the influence of. Radiation effects cosmic ray telescope (CRaTER) project chief researcher Hal

orchid spencer said: "CRaTER task two years ago, this is starting to see the most important

event. This is an exciting moment. Ironically, in planning this task, we originally thought

should be in the sun, because acuteness activity peaks launch the solar particles activities

usually in this period. In fact, we in the sun, and the sun tiny period launch activities will

take a long time to revive. This is an interesting and important moment, because all the signs

are that the sun was back to active state."

The sun from an outbreak of geomagnetic storms on earth will affect some of the grid, global

positioning systems use satellites and other equipment, but also will lead to fly over the

polar regions of the flights are over to change course. He said: "normally would not cause

greater destruction, threat within the scope of the controllable. If by jet to Asia, from the

United States over the arctic, you'll find ten flights. Every day is like this. When massive

radiation storm, some airlines will because of safety concerns to change course, away from the

flight to ensure flight polar regions keep communications smooth. The company will also

operating satellites close attention, because geomagnetic storms will in various ways to

interfere with satellite and received signal receiver." NASA says, in 8 evening and 9, polar

regions may also observed aurora borealis and aboard.

0

Latest Report of Solar Flare Activity Feb 2012

Updated Feb 20 2200 UTC

Joint USAF/NOAA Report of Solar and Geophysical Activity
SDF Number 051 Issued at 2200Z on 20 Feb 2012

IA.  Analysis of Solar Active Regions and Activity from  19/2100Z
to 20/2100Z:  Solar activity was low. There were three C-class flares
during the past 24 hours. The largest of these was a C4/Sf at 0509Z
from Region 1421 (N18E32). Region 1422 (N16W11) produced the other
two C-flares and is currently the largest group on the disk.

IB.  Solar Activity Forecast:  Solar activity is expected to be low.

IIA.  Geophysical Activity Summary 19/2100Z to 20/2100Z:
The geomagnetic field was unsettled to active with some isolated
storm periods at high latitudes. Solar wind data from ACE indicated
the influence of a high speed stream from a coronal hole. The
greater than 2 MeV electron flux at geosynchronous orbit reached
high levels during the period.

IIB.  Geophysical Activity Forecast:  The geomagnetic field is
expected to be unsettled with a chance for active periods on the
first day (21 Feb) due to continued effects from the high speed
stream. A decrease to mostly quiet levels is predicted for the
second day (22 Feb) and quiet levels are expected to continue for
the third day (23 Feb).