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Massive Solar Flare Disrupts Communications, Solves 50-Year Mystery

9/12/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The strongest solar flare of 2025 triggered radio blackouts across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.
Research reveals flare particles can reach temperatures of 60 million degrees Celsius, surpassing previous estimates by six times.
Led by Alexander Russell from the University of St. Andrews, the study solves a 50-year-old mystery about spectral lines in solar flares.
It indicates ions heat more than electrons during flares, impacting temperature distribution.
Enhanced models are necessary for better space weather predictions, improving safety for satellites and airlines.

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Story summary

The strongest solar flare of 2025 triggered radio blackouts across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.
Research reveals flare particles can reach temperatures of 60 million degrees Celsius, surpassing previous estimates by six times.
Led by Alexander Russell from the University of St. Andrews, the study solves a 50-year-old mystery about spectral lines in solar flares.
It indicates ions heat more than electrons during flares, impacting temperature distribution.
Enhanced models are necessary for better space weather predictions, improving safety for satellites and airlines.