Rare Aurora Spectacle Amidst Severe Solar Storm Disrupts Power and GPS
May 13, 2024A severe G5 geomagnetic storm on May 10-12, 2024, disrupted power grids, radio communications, and GPS satellites due to intense solar activity.
The solar storm allowed the Northern Lights to be seen as far south as California, and were also visible in Florida and Texas.
Photos with smartphones enhanced the visual experience of the aurora, which appeared faint to the naked eye due to light pollution.
SpaceX's Starlink broadband satellites launched 23 new satellites successfully during the storm, indicating resilience to solar disruptions.
Increased solar activity may offer additional chances to view the Northern Lights this year and provide valuable research opportunities on solar impacts.
Summary based on 90 sources
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Sources
Forbes • May 13, 2024
A 4-Step Science Lesson On Stunning Auroras Seen In The U.S.the Guardian • May 13, 2024
Aurora australis: southern lights ignite the sky across Australia after solar storm – videoThe Guardian • May 13, 2024
Weather tracker: Geomagnetic storms trigger northern lights