Solar superflare that could take down power supplies 'overdue'

Scientists warn that Earth is overdue for a dangerous "superflare" from the Sun, which could devastate satellites and power grids. Superflares release over one octillion joules of energy, much more than the Carrington Event of 1859, which disrupted telegraph systems.

An international team analyzed data from over 55,000 sun-like stars observed by NASA's Kepler telescope. They found that such stars produce a superflare about once every century, indicating we are overdue for a significant event.

Dr. Sami Solanki noted, "We cannot observe the Sun over thousands of years," making this star data crucial for estimation. The researchers highlighted that extreme solar events are typical for the Sun.

Forecasting solar flares is essential for precautionary measures. The European Space Agency plans to launch a Vigil satellite in 2031 for early warnings of solar storms.