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| NASA’s Solar Dynamics Observatory captured this image of a solar flare—visible as the bright flash in the lower left—on Oct. 1, 2024, using extreme ultraviolet light that highlights the hot material in vibrant red and orange. |
On October 1, 2024, the Sun unleashed a significant solar flare, peaking at 6:20 p.m. ET. NASA’s Solar Dynamics Observatory, which continuously monitors solar activity, captured stunning images of this intense event.
The flare, classified as an X7.1, is among the most powerful types of solar flares. X-class flares indicate the highest intensity, with the accompanying number reflecting their strength. Such solar activity can disrupt radio communications, electric power grids, navigation systems, and pose risks to spacecraft and astronauts.
For those interested in the potential impacts of this solar event on Earth, the NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center offers forecasts and alerts. NASA, as part of the U.S. space weather monitoring efforts, employs a fleet of spacecraft to study solar phenomena, including the Sun’s activity, solar atmosphere, and the surrounding magnetic fields.
