NASA Discovers 'Sunspots' Forming on the Sun, Sprays of Plasma Seen on Surface—Is this Dangerous?

NASA has recently discovered that the Sun has developed what is called "Sunspots" or peculiar-looking spots seen on the surface of the largest star in the Solar System, enveloping its body. It was later perceived as sprays of plasma on the Sun, which is something out-of-the-ordinary for the star to be developing at this time.

The Sun has been around for billions of years, along with the Earth, the neighboring planets, the galaxy, and the universe which are more ancient than what is known to the public and scientific researchers. With technology only developing now to marvel at the different cosmic bodies, the world is left to wonder about the different occurrences with space as of this moment.

Currently, the exploration of Mars would continue with NASA's Ingenuity space helicopter and the Perseverance rover is conducting its mission to survey the Red Planet and learn more about the iron-rich planet. While NASA also prepares for another journey towards the Moon with the Artemis mission in 2024, another thing to marvel and watch over is the Sun.

NASA Sunspots: What Caused It?

According to Express UK, the Sun has been discovered to have developed sprays of plasma on its surface, which is uncommon for the Sun's surface to do or display. This is also categorized as a "Sunspot" which are darker areas on the star's surface, generally cooler compared to the yellow areas of the hot ball of gas.

These Sunspots are magnetic fields that prevent heat from forming, maintaining a maximum heat of 3,500 Celcius, compared to the 5,500 C temperature of the largest star in this system. The Sunspots can also lead to possible "Solar Flares" which are eruptions happening on the Sun's surface and are known to be expulsions from the star.

This was observed by NASA's Satellites from the Solar Dynamics Observatory, and as noted by the Space Weather Blog of Dr. Tony Phillips which has stated the "offing" occurrence of this. The Sunspot has emerged several days ago, as said on the blog, which probably meant it has been since the last week of April.

Are Sunspots Dangerous for the Earth or Sun?

The Sunspots are active, according to the blog, and Dr. Phillips has recommended the monitoring of the Sun's activities and development in the coming days, as these are integral for humans as well. While the Sunspot is located in the farther region of the Sun, it is still something to monitor using a telescope or lens with protection.

Currently, this occurrence with the Sun is something not to be wary of or alarmed with, as it could not affect the daily life of people on Earth. However, it is something that astronomers should be worried about, as it could mean something is happening to the Sun and could have a long-term effect that could be a threat.

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Written by Isaiah Richard