Sun's Fury Unleashed: ISRO Issues Alert for Global Radio Blackout Risk - Punjabi News

Published on: 05 Feb 2026 at 04:59 AM

Sun’s Fury Unleashed: ISRO Issues Alert for Global Radio Blackout Risk

Published by: Gill Bikram

Sun’s Fury Unleashed: ISRO Issues Alert for Global Radio Blackout Risk

Powerful X8.1 Solar Flare Threatens Satellites, Power Grids, and Communications Worldwide

Bengaluru/New Delhi, February 5, 2026: Unusual and rapid activity on the Sun’s surface has scientists on edge. The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) warns of a powerful solar storm heading toward Earth, raising fears of widespread radio blackouts.

Why Is the Solar Storm Coming?
Scientists identified “Active Region 14366,” a magnetic sunspot cluster on the Sun. It unleashed 2026’s most intense X8.1-class solar flare so far—one of the top 20 most dangerous eruptions recorded since 1996.

Impacts on Earth
The storm won’t directly harm humans but could devastate technology:

Radio Blackouts: High-frequency radio communications could fail completely.
Satellite Risks: Over 50 of ISRO’s operational satellites face threats; GPS and navigation systems may disrupt.
Power Grids: Fast magnetic waves could cause electricity grid failures.
Auroras: Brilliant, colorful lights might appear near the poles.

ISRO and Aditya-L1’s Critical Role
India’s first solar observatory, Aditya-L1, acts as a “protective shield” from 1.5 million km away. It monitors solar activity 24/7. ISTRAC Director Anil Kumar says ground stations are on high alert. Data from Aditya-L1 helps ISRO implement timely emergency plans to safeguard space infrastructure.