A coronal mass ejection (CME) is a significant release of plasma and magnetic field from the Sun's corona. These eruptions can send billions of tons of solar material into space at high speeds, often exceeding 1 million miles per hour. CMEs are associated with solar flares and can impact the Earth when directed towards it.
When a CME reaches Earth, it can interact with the planet's magnetic field, potentially causing geomagnetic storms. These storms can disrupt satellite operations, affect power grids, and create beautiful auroras near the poles. Monitoring CMEs is essential for space weather forecasting and protecting technology on Earth.