A record radiation storm in the 21st century began near the Earth – RBC

An S4 level radiation storm began in the vicinity of the Earth for the first time in two solar cycles, reports press service of the Solar Astronomy Laboratory of the Institute of Space Research of the Russian Academy of Sciences in the telegram channel.

“The flux of solar protons has exceeded 10,000 units! For the first time in the last two solar cycles, a radiation storm of S4 level is occurring in the vicinity of the Earth,” the report says.

At the moment, the record is about 40 thousand units; it was achieved in the 20th century, scientists recalled.

Later in the laboratory clarifiedthat by 22:25 Moscow time the level of protons had increased to 37 thousand units, emphasizing that this figure is higher than in the X17.2 flare in 2003. “A record value has been reached in the 21st century,” experts said.

According to the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) classification of radiation storm levels, such storms are rated in one of five classes, where S1 is weak and S5 is extremely strong. The laboratory emphasized that the S5 level has never been recorded in the entire history of observations and exists only in theory.

Scientists toldthat the ongoing radiation storm does not pose a threat to the Earth’s surface, since the magnetic field and atmosphere completely block radiation at high altitudes. The penetration of particles to the surface would be extremely dangerous for the biosphere, but in the current situation this is not happening.

The main risks relate to astronauts, high-altitude flights in polar regions and satellites – increased radiation exposure, electronics failures, deterioration of orientation and performance of solar panels are possible, the NOAA definition clarifies. In addition, radio communications interference and an increase in navigation errors in high latitudes for several days are likely.

NOAA said January 20 will be a critical day for severe weather due to a combination of a powerful surge in solar radiation and a predicted magnetic storm.