Moderate solar flare reaching M1.7 erupted from Region 1650

After a long period of quiet time the Sun has sent us a greetings card today. At 9:31 UTC on January 5, 2013 an M1.7 solar flare peaked from Region 1650. The event started at 9:26, peaked at 9:31 and ended at 9:34 UTC. As of early morning today Region 1650 has 'alpha' magnetic configuration and is rotating into view off the southeast limb.

Meanwhile, Region 1640 has developed a 'beta-gamma-delta' magnetic field that harbors energy for X-class solar flares.

We are up for some solar activity in the coming days.

Check our Space weather station for real time updates on Sun's activity.

Featured image: Courtesy of NASA SDO