An impressive solar flare is heading towards Earth and could disrupt power grids, GPS and plane flights.
Forecasters at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Space Weather Prediction Centre said the sun erupted on Tuesday evening and the effects should start hitting Earth close to 4pm AEDT on Thursday.
They said it was the biggest eruption in five years and growing.
The magnetic storm has the potential to trip electrical power grids.
Its radio emissions can disrupt global positioning systems to make them less accurate. It also could damage satellites.
Scientists said communication problems and radiation from the storm would probably force planes to avoid flying over the north and south poles. Colourful auroras may be more visible.
How is this going to affect solar panels in Australia?
I developed an interest in the Australian energy and construction sectors more than a decade ago and have since closely followed the trends, technologies and developments shaping both industries. My involvement in the Australian solar market began in 2008, and over the years I have built strong connections with professionals, businesses and organisations across the construction, solar and renewable energy sectors in Australia and internationally. These connections include solar panel and inverter manufacturers, electrical and construction industry professionals, software developers creating tools to quote, monitor and manage solar power systems, and media organisations that closely follow developments across energy, construction and renewable technologies. Today, I continue to contribute as an industry advocate, author and commentator, sharing practical insights and information to help Australian consumers and businesses better understand solar power, energy technologies, construction-related developments and the changing Australian energy landscape.
