Astronomers are closely monitoring a large sunspot, designated AR 4079, which has the potential to trigger geomagnetic storms on Earth. The sunspot, observed in late April and early May 2025, spans approximately 87,000 miles (140,000 kilometers). Its size is roughly half that of the sunspot observed during the historic Carrington Event of 1859.
AR 4079 is currently positioned in the center of the Sun's visible face, increasing the likelihood of a direct impact on Earth if a solar eruption occurs. Solar flares and coronal mass ejections (CMEs) from this region could send energy and particles toward Earth, potentially causing geomagnetic disturbances.
While AR 4079 has been relatively quiet, scientists are vigilantly tracking it for any signs of major eruptions. The NOAA's Space Weather Prediction Center (SWPC) will issue alerts for any imminent geomagnetic storm, classifying them from G1 (minor) to G5 (extreme) based on severity. Geomagnetic storms can disrupt radio communications, power grids, and satellite operations, and can also produce auroras.
The sunspot's emergence coincides with the Sun approaching solar maximum in its current 11-year cycle, characterized by increased sunspot activity. Scientists continue to observe AR 4079 to better understand its potential impact on Earth's space weather.
The recent G4-level geomagnetic storm on April 16, 2025, caused auroras to be seen much farther south than usual.