In mid-May 2024, an active sunspot region known as AR 13664 produced powerful solar flares that triggered geomagnetic storms on Earth and spectacular displays of the northern lights.
This same sunspot region has now reappeared on the eastern edge of the sun after rotating around to the other side, and is now being called AR 13697.
On its reappearance, AR 13697 produced an X2.9 solar flare, indicating it is still capable of powerful eruptions.
The sunspot region will rotate into a position facing Earth over the next two weeks, allowing any solar flares it produces to impact our planet and possibly cause additional geomagnetic storms and auroras.
Optimal conditions for Earth-impacting solar activity would occur around June 4-6 when the region is at the optimal location on the sun’s disk.
While fewer huge flares may be produced this time, just one powerful ejection could still cause a strong enough geomagnetic storm to enhance the northern lights display.
Scientists will monitor the sunspot region to assess its magnetic complexity and flare productivity as it rotates into view.
Source: Space
