[Watch] Giant Hole On The Sun That Could Fit 60 Earths; Is It A Threat For Us?

New Delhi: A huge coronal hole has recently formed on the sun’s surface, casting a stream of high-velocity solar winds in the direction of the Earth.

Astronomers are closely watching and monitoring the vast expanse of darkness which came to light near the sun’s equator on December 2.

In four days, the hole has expanded to an astounding width of about 4,97,000 miles — equivalent to over 60 Earths laid side by side.

Since December 4, the coronal hole has been facing Earth directly.

Though not uncommon, this coronal hole has put the scientific community on alert because of its scale and timing.

It occurs as the sun approaches the peak of its 11-year cycle – called solar maximum – which is expected to climax in 2024.

After the coronal hole was detected, there were concerns that solar winds — which can travel between 500-800 kilometres per second – could induce a G2 geomagnetic storm, potentially leading to radio blackouts and vivid auroras.

However, Spaceweather.com reported that the intensity of solar wind is less severe than expected, resulting in a weak G1 geomagnetic storm.

According to scientists and astronomers, the huge hole doesn’t pose any significant threat to Earth as it moves in a direction away from face of Earth.