This orientation means that any eruption that subsequently occurs will send a flow of charged particles toward Earth, triggering auroral displays, some of which may be visible in the northern latitudes of North America later this week, as well as from extreme southern latitudes. The sun is currently in a phase that astronomers call the solar maximum , the peak of an 11-year cycle of activity. During the maximum, the sun bubbles up with flares and eruptions, sending out charged particles across the solar system. Residents of Earth are safe from the eruptions. But satellites in Earth orbit can be damaged if hit with a radioactive burst from the sun, causing disruptions to communications systems.
Astronauts are also vulnerable.
NOAA's Space Environment Center releases frequent online reports on space weather.