Massive 1-Million-Kilometer Hole in the Sun Sends Solar Winds Hurtling Toward Earth

A vast coronal hole—estimated to span nearly 1 million kilometers across—has opened on the surface of the Sun, unleashing a torrent of high-speed solar wind aimed directly at Earth. Scientists are closely monitoring the solar activity, which is already affecting Earth’s magnetosphere and could potentially lead to both beautiful and disruptive consequences.

Coronal holes are relatively cooler, less dense regions of the Sun’s atmosphere where magnetic field lines open outward into space, allowing solar wind to escape more freely. This current hole is among the largest observed in recent years, stretching nearly 80 times the diameter of Earth.

Stunning Auroras, Serious Disruptions

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) confirmed that charged particles from the solar wind are expected to continue interacting with Earth’s magnetic field over the next several days. This can lead to enhanced auroras—also known as the northern and southern lights—visible at lower latitudes than usual.

“If you’re anywhere near the northern United States, Europe, or southern Australia, there’s a chance you could see some breathtaking aurora activity tonight,” said Dr. Elena Vargas, a solar physicist at NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center.