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Far-Side Solar Eruption May Be X10 With Plasma Cloud Forecast to Reach Interstellar Comet Oct. 24

IKI scientists issue model-based timing for a potential 1.5–2 day passage of interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS through the plasma cloud.

Overview

  • The flare and plasma ejection occurred on the Sun’s far side at about 23:00 Moscow time on October 21, according to the Space Research Institute’s solar astronomy lab.
  • Analyses estimate the ejected cloud is directed within roughly 10–20 degrees of interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS.
  • Model projections indicate the front of the ejection should reach the comet around 15:00 Moscow time on October 24.
  • Scientists expect the comet to remain inside the plasma cloud for approximately 1.5–2 days, a forecast that awaits observational verification.
  • Researchers say the flare may have approached X10 strength, placing it among the most powerful classes, though the classification is still an estimate.