Material from the leading edge of the disturbance is expected to arrive on Thursday, June 8, with possible auroral displays to follow. The agency hopes to learn how to predict solar storms that can fry satellite electronics, threaten astronauts and even shut down power systems on Earth. Recent analysis of the magnetic fields that make up a region on the sun suggest there is a distinct possibility of a major M or X class solar flare sometime over the next 3 to 5 days. Doomsayers charge that the gravitational effects of an upcoming planetary alignment will wreak havoc on Earth. Astronomers call the idea absurd.
Scientists say 'no way' to solar tidal doom.
Predicting solar activity can be tricky but now space weather forecasters have a way to predict the future. Researchers using the orbiting Solar and Heliospheric Observatory have developed a new method to see what's on the far side of our star before it rotates over the Sun's limb to face Earth. No one can predict which month or week will be worst, but the sun is at the height of its 11-year cycle of storms, which means the Earth can expect several barrages of excess charged particles. Its information can help to protect not only electricity networks, but satellite users ranging from broadcasters to automated teller machines and even pager companies. The information will be relayed to power system managers with 5 seconds so they can adjust the current to keep the lines from overloading.