It’s not just about stunning auroras when the sun sends out solar storms. Recently, people marveled at bright auroras across the sky, but astronauts on the International Space Station (ISS) had to stay alert.
During intense solar storms, the ISS crew received an alert about an increase in radiation. Astronaut Mike Fincke and others quickly adapted their sleeping schedules for safety. A communication noted, “We’re going in and out of areas with higher radiation risk.” To ensure safety, three cosmonauts—Oleg Platonov, Sergey Ryzhikov, and Alexey Zubritsky—were directed to sleep in the laboratory module of the ISS.
On the nights of November 11 and 12, coronal mass ejections from sunspot group AR4274 created auroras visible across the Northern Hemisphere. These ejections contain heavy particles that can be dangerous for astronauts since Earth’s atmosphere typically shields us from such radiation. While the ISS has some protection, extra caution is always a good idea.
Interestingly, NASA did allow the US crew to stay in their quarters while their Russian counterparts moved for the night. This precaution showcases the ongoing need to adapt to space weather, which can shift rapidly and unpredictably.
In addition to the cosmonauts, the ISS is currently hosting NASA astronauts Mike Fincke, Jonny Kim, Zena Cardman, and Kimiya Yui from JAXA, all onboard since August. They’ll be on the station for about three more months, exploring and conducting experiments.
Astronauts have resumed their online activities after a recent government shutdown, just in time for many to share observations of these beautiful auroras. For example, Jonny Kim posted a spectacular video of an aurora from space.
The relationship between solar activity and space travel isn’t just a curious fact; it has real implications. A study from NASA found that increased solar activity can spike radiation levels, potentially affecting astronaut health. These findings highlight the need for continuous monitoring of solar events and readiness to act—both on Earth and in space.
In our modern world, awareness of solar storms is rising. With social media buzzing with stunning aurora images and educational content, more people are becoming informed about space weather’s impact. This awareness is crucial as we venture further into space exploration.
For those interested in the science behind these phenomena, you can read more about solar storms and their effects on space missions in NASA’s comprehensive resources.
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