NEW YORK, BRONX (ORDO News) — A study conducted by a team of scientists found that 14,300 years ago, the Earth was hit by a powerful solar flare, surpassing all previous ones. This amazing discovery was made through the analysis of tree rings found in the southern French Alps.
The sun sometimes behaves unpredictably, emitting solar flares and X-rays. These phenomena can have a negative impact on our technologically advanced civilization. We are accustomed to the fact that the Sun rises every morning and determines the seasons, but its activity can have a serious impact on our lives.
Researchers have been observing solar cycles for a relatively short time, dating back to the 1600s, and it is only in the last century that we have gained more powerful means of monitoring solar activity. However, even in this short period of time, there have been cases where solar activity has affected our technology . A solar flare in 1989 caused a power outage in Quebec, and the Carrington Event in 1859 affected the telegraph system. If such an event were to occur today, it could cause global power outages and disrupt satellite systems, including GPS.
Researchers have turned to ancient trees to uncover the mystery of a powerful solar flare. By literally traveling back in time through the ringlets of trees, scientists discovered a dramatic spike in carbon-14 levels in wood samples dating back approximately 14,300 years ago. Carbon-14 is produced in the Earth’s atmosphere and is used to determine the age of organic material. Usually its production is stable, but during a strong solar flare the rate of its production increases sharply.
Therefore, the detection of a carbon-14 spike indicates that the Miyaki event, as it is called, actually occurred. This outbreak was twice as powerful as all of Miyaki’s previous events. Perhaps those who lived 14,300 years ago were lucky because they did not depend on modern technology. However, if such an event were to occur today, it could cause significant inconvenience and problems in today’s electricity and technology dependent world.
This discovery once again reminds us how vulnerable we are to natural phenomena, including solar activity.
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News agencies contributed to this report, edited and published by ORDO News editors.
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