Powerful X4.2 Solar Flare Erupts from Sunspot AR4366, Causing Brief Radio Disruptions

Kathmandu. This week, the Sun displayed a highly aggressive form, releasing another powerful solar flare on Wednesday. This potent flare, categorized as an 'X4.2', caused momentary disruptions in radio communications across parts of Western Africa and Southern Europe.

This explosion originated from the sunspot group named 'AR4366' on the Sun's surface, which has been continuously active for the past few days.

X-class solar flares are considered the most powerful, bringing a flood of radiation to Earth's upper atmosphere and affecting communication systems. According to scientists, there were no indications of a Coronal Mass Ejection (CME), a large plume of plasma, accompanying this explosion.

However, due to some solar material released from a previous major explosion (X8.4) approaching Earth, a minor geomagnetic storm (G1) is anticipated today or tomorrow.

The 'Sunspot 4366' region currently visible on the Sun is so vast that its width is 15 times greater than the Earth's diameter. It can even be seen with the naked eye from Earth using specially protective glasses (solar eclipse glasses).

Arizona-based astro-photographer Mark Johnston has captured a stunning image of it. Space weather experts are closely monitoring this region as it is still facing Earth and remains active, suggesting it could have further impacts in the coming days.