A massive coronal hole on the Sun, over 800,000 kilometers wide, is sending solar winds towards Earth, causing unusual geomagnetic activity and colorful auroras in the sky.
On February 16, 2026, NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory observed a large coronal hole on the surface of the Sun, which measures more than 800,000 kilometers across and is facing directly towards Earth. This phenomenon is significant because it indicates an open magnetic corridor on the Sun from which solar wind – a stream of charged particles – is released into space at high speeds. As the solar wind exceeds 700 kilometers per second, it raises concerns about the potential impacts on Earth’s magnetic field and atmospheric phenomena.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) declared a G2 level geomagnetic storm on the evening of February 16, as solar wind speeds surpassed 650 kilometers per second at the L1 point, where the Indian satellite Aditya-L1 is positioned. Such intense solar activity can cause disruptions in communication systems and satellites, and it has been observed to create stunning displays of green, red, and purple lights in the night sky across various regions.
Photographer John Olunyi in Scotland remarked on the beauty of these auroras, noting that they have captivated viewers across the globe. As the phenomenon coincides with an upcoming eclipse, there are growing speculations about possible connections between solar activities and the behavior of celestial events like eclipses. This report underscores the importance of monitoring solar activity as it directly affects both technology on Earth and the experience of natural spectacles in the sky.
