A giant hole, known as “coronal hole”formed on the surface of the Sun, unleashing powerful flows of solar wind traveling at unusual speeds.
This anomaly, which appeared in 2023 near the solar equator, reached an amplitude of approximately 800,000 kilometers in just 24 hoursa dimension greater than 60 times the diameter of the Earth. Its location and time of appearance are equally surprising: according to experts, similar events are extremely rare in this phase of the solar cycle.
What is a coronal hole
Coronal holes are regions of the solar atmosphere (corona) characterized by lower temperatures and densities than the surrounding areas. In these areas, the solar magnetic field opens up, allowing the solar wind to escape more easily and propagate into space at high speeds, up to 800 kilometers per second.
As of December 4, the hole is oriented directly towards Earth, a detail that could have significant implications for our planet. In fact, such rapid solar winds can interact with the Earth’s magnetic field, causing geomagnetic storms capable of disturbing telecommunications and electrical networks, as well as generating spectacular Northern Lights.
The origin and impact of the phenomenon
“Coronal holes” are areas of the solar corona where the magnetic field opens into space, allowing the solar wind to escape with greater intensity. Although temporary phenomena, the size of this hole and its proximity to the equator represent an unprecedented anomaly. Scientists are closely monitoring the phenomenon to better understand the impact it may have on terrestrial technology and on space climates.
