Real-time NOAA space weather data
Solar Activity Monitor
Track current solar activity levels, solar flux radiation, and active sunspot regions. All data updates in real-time from NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center.
Current Solar Activity
F10.7cm radio emissions indicating solar radiation levels
Number of active sunspot regions on the solar disk
Overall solar activity classification
Understanding Solar Activity
Solar Flux (F10.7)
Measured at 10.7 cm wavelength, this indicates the intensity of solar radio emissions. Higher values suggest increased solar activity and better aurora potential.
- < 70 SFU: Very Low Activity
- 70-100 SFU: Low Activity
- 100-150 SFU: Moderate Activity
- 150-200 SFU: High Activity
- > 200 SFU: Very High Activity
Sunspot Regions
Dark areas on the sun's surface indicating intense magnetic activity. More sunspots typically mean higher chance of solar storms and auroras.
Active regions are numbered and tracked by NOAA as they rotate across the solar disk over approximately 14 days.
Why It Matters
Solar activity directly impacts aurora visibility. High solar flux and numerous sunspots increase the likelihood of coronal mass ejections (CMEs) and solar flares that create auroras.
Monitor these values along with the KP index trends for complete aurora forecasting. Check the aurora oval map to see predicted aurora locations, or use the probability calculator for your specific location.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Solar Flux (F10.7)?
Measured at 10.7 cm wavelength, solar flux indicates the intensity of solar radio emissions. Higher values suggest increased solar activity and better aurora potential. Values below 70 SFU indicate very low activity, while values above 200 SFU indicate very high activity.
What are sunspot regions?
Sunspot regions are dark areas on the sun's surface indicating intense magnetic activity. More sunspots typically mean higher chance of solar storms and auroras. Active regions are numbered and tracked by NOAA as they rotate across the solar disk over approximately 14 days.
Why does solar activity matter for aurora forecasting?
Solar activity directly impacts aurora visibility. High solar flux and numerous sunspots increase the likelihood of coronal mass ejections (CMEs) and solar flares that create auroras. Monitor these values along with the KP index for complete aurora forecasting.
Get Real-time Solar Activity Alerts
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