The sun just unleashed its most powerful solar flare in years

image via New Scientist

February 2, 2026, 5:45 PM

• •The sun released multiple strong solar flares.
• •The strongest flare was an X8.1-class burst.
• •Expelled plasma may reach Earth, causing auroras.
• •Scientists are monitoring the sun's activity.

The sun recently released a series of powerful solar flares, including an X8.1-class burst, the strongest since 2024. These flares are part of an unusually active period for the sun, with more activity expected. The expelled plasma from these events may reach Earth, potentially causing auroras. Scientists are closely monitoring the situation as the sun's activity continues to fluctuate.

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