Northern Lights Observed Across Turkey Due to Solar Storm

This extraordinary event, usually visible in high northern latitudes, resulted from a powerful solar phenomenon on October 8, 2024. TUA explained the science behind this event, linking it to a solar eruption known as a coronal mass ejection (CME), which caused a geomagnetic storm.

Solar Storms and the Northern Lights

On the evening of October 8, 2024, scientists recorded a coronal mass ejection (CME) with speeds reaching 2.5 million kilometers per hour. This solar explosion sent a plasma cloud that reached Earth on October 10, 2024, at approximately 14:15 Turkish Standard Time (TSI). When it hit Earth, it triggered a geomagnetic storm that affected our planet’s magnetic field.

TUA classified the geomagnetic storm as a G4-level event, one of the most severe types. These strong storms can extend the visible range of auroras, allowing them to be seen much farther south than usual, including in Turkey. Normally, northern lights are seen near the North Pole, in places like Scandinavia or Canada. However, under specific conditions, they can also appear in more temperate regions.

Impact of G4 Geomagnetic Storms

G4 geomagnetic storms are significant events. They often disrupt satellite communications, GPS systems, and even power grids. In this instance, the most visible effect was the appearance of auroras in unexpected locations. Many people across Turkey witnessed the vibrant, dancing lights of the aurora, a rare and spectacular sight for the region.

TUA reassured the public that this occurrence was a natural consequence of increased solar activity and posed no threat. Events like this highlight the connection between solar activity and Earth’s magnetic environment.

Understanding Coronal Mass Ejections (CME)

Coronal mass ejections are large bursts of solar wind and magnetic fields released from the Sun’s atmosphere. When these clouds of plasma reach Earth, they can disturb our planet’s magnetosphere, leading to geomagnetic storms. These storms are classified from G1 (minor) to G5 (extreme). A G4 storm, like the one Turkey experienced, is severe. It can disrupt radio communication, satellite operations, and create auroras visible in lower latitudes.

Conclusion

The recent northern lights display over Turkey was a rare and beautiful result of a powerful solar event. As the Sun enters a more active phase of its cycle, such occurrences may become more frequent, offering more opportunities for skywatchers to witness this extraordinary light show.

For a deeper understanding of solar storms, you can refer to NASA’s space weather section or NOAA’s geomagnetic storm information.