Earth prepares for strongest solar storm since 2005

The Earth is currently experiencing the most powerful solar radiation storm since 2005 and the brunt of it is expected to hit at 14:00 GMT today ( Tuesday 24 ). This comes after heightened recent solar activity that has caused impressive auroras, visible at lower latitudes than normal.

Early yesterday ( January 23 ) NASA satellites detected a huge solar flare and a coronal mass eruption ( CME ) headed towards the Earth. The solar flare was classed as M8.7 – nearly reaching the most powerful X class category. As for the effects, they are difficult to predict; satellites could have problems, GPS could be disrupted and, perhaps most worryingly, airplanes can be affected by severe solar storms. Some precautions, such as flying at lower altitudes and changing routes have already been taken. Although again difficult to predict, the solar storm could mean more opportunities to see auroras, also known as the Northern and Southern Lights. These beautiful displays caused by high energy particles hitting the Earth's upper atmosphere are normally only visible near the poles, but during solar storms they can sometimes be seen at lower latitudes. Read more and watch the solar flare on the NASA website. Liam Lever, liam@romania-insider.com (photo source: NASA)