Incoming CME!
The huge January 23rd sunspot 1402 has erupted once again producing a very strong M9 class solar flare class with fast coronal mass ejection (CME). Analysts at the Goddard Spaceweather Laboratory predicted that the CME will reach Earth on January 24 at 14:18 UTC (+ / - 7 hours) and the planet Mars a day later.Strong geomagnetic storms will be possible when the CME reaches earth . Our magnetic field is still subject to perturbations caused by a weaker impact CME on January 22. Striking another blow could trigger auroras at high latitudes. Observers in northern Europe, Canada, Alaska and the U.S. (Dakotas, Minnesota and Wisconsin) should be able to witness the northern lights.
Incoming protons from the storm have been rated at S3 (Strong = Strong).
Precautionary measures should be taken:
Biological: radiation avoidance recommended for astronauts on EVA, passengers and crew of aircraft at high altitudes at high latitudes.
Satellite operations: Noise in imaging systems and slight reduction in efficiency of solar panels.
Other systems: Likely HF radio propagation reduction through the polar regions.
Photo by Ronn Murray, Jan.22,2012, Alaska.
Love this page today and starting to look forward to what to lookout for my Daily DX thanks and 73 Les gm3itn