A powerful solar flare occurred: its effects may be felt on Earth.

      A flare occurred on November 5 at about 14:19 Moscow time in active region 4274. Scientists note that this is the first event of the new activity cycle capable of affecting Earth. Although the trajectory model of the ejection has not yet been calculated, available data indicate that the plasma cloud will graze Earth on the night from Friday to Saturday.

      According to specialists, a moderate impact is currently expected — the main, densest parts of the ejection are headed past our planet. However, from the end of the week more significant effects are possible if the Sun’s activity remains at the current level.

      “The active centers on the visible side of the Sun have existed for almost a month and, contrary to forecasts, have not yet faded. The likelihood of their decay in the coming days is small,” the laboratory noted.

      Scientists added that Earth’s magnetosphere will likely face a stress test by the end of the week. In addition, on the morning of November 5 another powerful flare — of X1.1 class — was recorded on the far side of the Sun, but it will not affect Earth.