Scientists Warn of Potential Solar Superflare

Recent research indicates that Earth is overdue for a devastating solar superflare, a phenomenon previously thought to occur every 1,000 to 10,000 years, but now estimated to happen roughly once every century. These superflares, capable of releasing energy exceeding one octillion joules—over 100 times more powerful than the 1859 Carrington Event—pose a significant threat to modern technology, potentially disabling satellites and power grids. An analysis of over 55,000 sun-like stars by researchers from the Max Planck Institute revealed 2,889 superflares, suggesting a higher frequency of such events. If a superflare analogous to the Carrington Event were to strike today, researchers estimate a severe impact on power and communication systems due to our reliance on technology. Historical records indicate that solar events have disrupted power supplies in the past, such as the 1989 Quebec blackout. The European Space Agency plans to launch a satellite in 2031 to provide early warnings for future solar storms.