This event, on 27-28 April, is an exciting opportunity to ponder our links with the nearest star and to celebrate the discoveries of ESA s solar observatories, SOHO, Cluster and Ulysses. Our Sun plays a central role in daily life, by warming and lighting the world, and powering the growth of living plants. Since ancient times, mankind has been aware of its importance, although not always understanding how or why. Now in the space age, man-made satellites monitor and probe the environs of the Sun, observing subtler and sometimes damaging effects on Earth. Studying this space weather , the collective term used to describe effects originating from the Sun, is an increasingly important activity in our technology-dependent society.
Solar storms are responsible for many dramatic events.
A nine-hour power blackout in Canada, disabled satellites and corroded pipelines have all been blamed on the Sun. Even increased radiation risks to airline passengers and crews can result from high solar activity. Forecasting the space weather can alert us to upcoming storms and appropriate actions can be taken to minimise the impact of these events. ESA invites you to join in an international effort, to promote public awareness of the dynamics of our Sun and its influence on the Earth. 18-2001 at the right of this page.