Saudi Arabia detects solar spots and flares. Will they cut off the internet from Earth?

The Noor Al-Falak Observatory in the Qassim region revealed on Tuesday morning that it had detected large sunspots on the sun's surface. These spots are expected to produce moderate-intensity solar flares, the effects of which will extend to the polar regions in the coming days.

What are sunspots?

Issa Al-Ghafeeli, Chairman of the Noor Astronomy Society, explained that sunspots are magnetically active areas on the sun's surface , appearing and disappearing within specific solar cycles. These sunspots appear darker compared to the surrounding areas due to their lower temperature. Magnetic currents lower the temperature in these areas to between 4,000 and 4,500 degrees Celsius, compared to the sun's natural temperature of 6,000 degrees Celsius.

Al-Ghafeeli pointed out that the size of some of these sunspots is close to the size of planet Earth, and their magnetic activity is thousands of times greater than that of Earth's magnetic field .

The effect of sunspots on Earth

Al-Ghafeeli explained that mild to moderate solar flares and storms contribute to the appearance of the aurora borealis , and can also slightly impact satellite systems and power grids, especially in areas near the North Pole. The movement of migratory birds in those regions may also be affected.

He added that sunspots and associated solar activity can affect satellites, electronic devices, wireless communications, the internet, and radio and television transmissions, but to a limited extent and without causing disruption.

Continuous monitoring of solar activity

Al-Ghafeeli emphasized that the association monitors solar activity continuously through its space-monitoring devices, with the goal of providing accurate readings that contribute to understanding astronomical phenomena related to the sun. He concluded by stating that the most powerful solar storm ever recorded occurred approximately 160 years ago, causing the appearance of auroras in areas near the equator, a rare phenomenon.