Large sunspot group harbors energy for M-class solar flares

A large sunspot group is rotating over the sun’s northeastern limb, possibly signaling an uptick in solar activity. Measuring some 40,000 km wide and at least twice that in length, the behemoth active region is an easy target for backyard solar telescopes.

Astronomers are encouraged to monitor the region: NOAA forecasters estimate a 60% chance of M-class solar flares during the next 24 hours. Eruptions today would not be Earth directed, but future eruptions could be as the sunspot turns toward our planet in the days ahead. (SpaceWeather)

Numerous C-Class flares were detected over the past 24 hours, primarily around sprawling Sunspot 1339 which continues to rotate fully into view on the northeast limb. There will be an increasing chance for another M-Class event on Wednesday. This region was responsible for several M-Class flares on October 31st while it was still located on the limb. Click HERE to watch the flares in action.

The other new region which is Sunspot 1338, is now fully in view in the southeast quadrant. This spot is also responsible for some of the C-Class activity including a C5.2 on Oct 31. (SolarHam)