A study published in The Astronomical Journal in May 2025, led by researchers from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, NASA, and other institutions, provides evidence that stellar flares can cause measurable changes in a planet's climate within days.
The research highlights the connection between solar activity and climate. While human-caused greenhouse gases are the primary drivers of long-term climate change, short-term solar variability can also influence regional climate behavior.
Using advanced 3D climate models, the team simulated how solar flares affect the climate on exoplanets, like TRAPPIST-1e. The findings suggest that solar activity can temporarily alter a planet's atmospheric circulation.
The study emphasizes that solar flares, while not the main drivers of Earth's long-term climate change, have real and detectable effects. These effects should be considered in future atmospheric models, especially in regions sensitive to temperature and wind changes.
The research underscores that stars actively and unpredictably influence their planets' climates. Understanding these interactions is crucial for assessing which exoplanets could support life. This multidisciplinary work involved experts in astroclimate modeling, atmospheric chemistry, and planetary science, supported by institutions from four countries and several NASA research centers.