A newly emerged sunspot, designated AR4366, has transformed into a significant source of solar activity, producing 17 minor flares and three powerful X-class explosions in under 24 hours. This massive sunspot, which recently appeared as a small blemish on the Sun’s surface, has grown to an impressive size, measuring half the dimensions of the renowned Carrington Event sunspot observed in 1859. Its rapid expansion is contributing to increased instability, suggesting that further eruptions are on the horizon.
The Carrington Event was a colossal solar storm in September 1859, notorious for being the strongest recorded in history. Recent developments surrounding AR4366 include an exceptional X8-class flare that peaked on February 1, 2026, causing extensive ionization in Earth’s upper atmosphere. This event triggered a significant shortwave radio blackout throughout the South Pacific region, affecting areas such as Australia and New Zealand. Ham radio operators reported significant disruptions to signals below 30 MHz for several hours following the flare, adversely influencing aviation and maritime communications.
Following the X8 class flare, AR4366 unleashed more powerful X-flares, including an X2.9, identified as R3 (strong) events by NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center. In just the previous 24 hours leading up to February 1 UTC, the sunspot generated over 20 flares, driving the solar activity levels from low to high.
The recent activity of sunspot AR4366 has scientists curious about the current vigor of the Sun. Situated in the northeast quadrant, it has grown in size and complexity, particularly in terms of its magnetic fields. These twisted fields, configured in a “delta” pattern, are comparable to stretched rubber bands that release accumulated energy, resulting in flares.
NOAA along with SOHO coronagraphs are monitoring the situation closely for any signs of coronal mass ejections (CMEs). These are dense clouds of plasma that could travel toward Earth at staggering speeds. If a CME is confirmed from the dark plasma plume associated with the X8 flare, the Earth may witness dazzling auroras in high-latitude regions within one to three days. Previous CMEs from similar sunspots have led to geomagnetic disturbances, impacting power grids and satellite operations.
The recent radio blackouts are already affecting the sunlit areas of the Earth, and additional disruptions are anticipated as AR4366 remains active. Currently, there have not been any major geomagnetic storms; however, space weather experts are advising vigilance through NOAA’s updates.
This recent surge in solar activity marks some of the strongest flares of 2026 and highlights the peak volatility of Solar Cycle 25. Astronomers and satellite operators are on alert, with forecasters indicating that more flares may be imminent, suggesting that exciting developments are likely over the weekend.