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science9h ago
Powerful X-class solar flare triggers radio blackout ahead of Artemis 2 launch
- A powerful X1.4 solar flare on March 30 sparked radio blackouts on Earth, affecting HF signals during Artemis 2 preparations.
- The flare peaked at 11:19 p.m. EDT and produced degradation of high-frequency radio signals over the sunlit side of Earth.
- The eruption originated from active region 4405, a complex sunspot group now rotating into Earth’s view, signaling possible continued activity.
- A coronal mass ejection accompanying the flare has a possible Earth-directed component, raising geomagnetic storm risk.
- NOAA issued a moderate geomagnetic storm watch (G2) for March 31, with minor (G1) conditions possible on March 30 and April 1.
- Space.com notes NASA is monitoring space weather closely as Artemis 2 nears launch on April 1.
- If the CME delivers a glancing blow, auroras could appear at lower latitudes than usual, potentially visible in parts of the United States.
- NOAA issued an alert and experts warn radio bursts could affect communications during critical launch operations.
- Space Weather Center published X1.4 flare bulletin and provided imagery of the CME and solar activity.
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