Types of Solar Flare
X-ray flare
The strongest solar flares are known as X-ray flares. They are brought on by the abrupt release of magnetic energy that has been stored in the atmosphere of the sun. In additionally to high-energy particles like protons and electrons, they also release X-rays, a form of high-energy electromagnetic radiation. According to their intensity, X-ray flares are divided into four classes: X, M, B, and A. X-class flares are the strongest, while the other classes are C, M, B, and A. The strongest flares, known as X-class flares, can seriously disrupt Earth’s power and communication systems, as well as generate auroras, interfere with satellites and astronauts in space, and can also cause substantial communication and power grid disruptions. Aside from that, the increased radiation makes them more hazardous for humans in space.
M-ray flare
M-class solar flares are less powerful than X-class flares, they can nevertheless seriously damage Earth’s power and communication infrastructure. They are categorized according to intensity, with M1, M2, M3, and so forth being more powerful, and they mostly emit ultraviolet and visible radiation. They also release protons and electrons, which can be problematic for astronauts and satellites in orbit. In addition to damaging space-based satellites, they can also create radio blackouts and auroras. They are more frequent than X-class flares but less often than C-class flares and are regarded as moderate in strength.
C-ray flares
The weakest of the main classes of solar flares are C-class flares. They are categorized according to intensity, with C1, C2, C3, and so forth being more powerful, and they mostly emit ultraviolet and visible radiation. They don’t significantly affect Earth’s power grids or communication networks because they emit only a little amount of protons and electrons. They are more frequent than M-class and X-class flares and are regarded as low intensity flares. Additionally, they are less likely to harm astronauts or satellites when they are in orbit. However, because they can affect the total solar activity, scientists and space weather forecasters continue to keep an eye on them.
White Light Flare
Less frequently than the other types, white light flares are a form of solar flare. White light is the moniker given to them since they are marked by an apparent brightening of the sun’s surface. These flares, which are brought on by a sudden release of energy from the sun’s surface, frequently happen in conjunction with other flare types, like X-class flares. As a result of the large amount of light they emit at the hydrogen-alpha wavelength, they are often referred to as “Hydrogen alpha flares.” Although they are thought to be less powerful than X-class flares, they can nevertheless interfere with the functioning of the Earth’s electrical and communications systems. They may also reduce the sun’s visibility, making it challenging for astronomers to see other solar surface features.
Solar Proton Event (SPE)
A solar flare of the Solar Proton Event (SPE) variety is characterized by a burst of highly energetic protons from the sun. These protons are accelerated to extremely high speeds, and they have the potential to seriously harm astronauts’ health as well as spacecraft equipment and satellites. SPEs can occur on their own or in conjunction with other flare types, such X-class flares. They may also have an impact on the Earth’s atmosphere and increase radiation levels, which may impair the functionality of communications networks, power grids, and other man-made infrastructure. Even while these occurrences are relatively infrequent, they can have a big influence on our technologically dependent society when they do. Space weather experts keep a careful eye on these developments and send out alerts when needed.
What is Solar Flare?
A magnetic storm that resembles a bright spot on the Sun created a gaseous surface eruption and was caused by magnetic anomalies. Solar flares are explosions that result from the strong magnetic fields present in the active regions that cause sunspots. Solar flares heat the gas in the corona to a temperature ranging from 10 to 20 million Kelvin as they pass through it.
Contact Us