In an incredible display of natural beauty, a rare solar storm is set to grace the skies over parts of the United States on Wednesday evening, offering a captivating light show that is often reserved for regions near the poles. The event follows a massive explosion known as a coronal mass ejection (CME) on the surface of the Sun, which occurred on July 21.

Coronal mass ejections happen when the Sun's powerful magnetic fields become stretched to their breaking point and eventually snap, propelling large quantities of solar particles into space. This time, some of these particles are headed towards Earth and are expected to arrive on Wednesday. However, experts assure that these particles pose no danger to humans.

Instead, the arrival of the solar particles will trigger a chain reaction, potentially resulting in vivid auroras over parts of the United States that rarely get the chance to witness such a spectacle. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) predicts that northern and upper midwestern states, from New York to Idaho, may have the opportunity to witness the awe-inspiring Northern Lights on the evening of Wednesday, July 24.

Auroras, such as the Northern Lights, occur when solar particles collide with oxygen and nitrogen in the Earth's atmosphere. This collision excites the molecules, causing them to emit a vibrant glow as they lose the energy they absorbed. During particularly powerful solar storms, like the recent CME on Sunday, unusual amounts of particles are propelled towards Earth, leading to auroras appearing in unexpected places.

While Sunday's solar storm may seem significant, it was actually rated as a G2 on the NOAA scale, indicating its relatively weak intensity compared to other solar storms. Although it poses no direct threat to humans, it can potentially affect certain technologies. Interruptions in HF radio signals in some regions may occur, while spacecraft and satellites may need to take precautions to avoid damage.

This incoming solar storm is minor compared to a previous event in May, which received a G4 rating, making it one of the most powerful types of solar storms. During that event, a series of five CMEs occurred consecutively, amplifying their energy and resulting in remarkable auroras that could be seen as far south as Alabama.

While the world marvels at the natural wonders of this celestial display, it's worth noting that such solar storms can have far-reaching effects. Recently, NASA's Curiosity rover detected the highest levels of radiation ever recorded on the surface of Mars during a solar storm. Additionally, the effects of a solar storm were not limited to the skies above, as it was also observed to impact the deep ocean.

This extraordinary opportunity to witness the Northern Lights in unexpected places serves as a reminder of the grandeur and power of the Sun. As millions of Americans eagerly await Wednesday night's light show, scientists continue to study and monitor the Sun's activities, offering insights into the complexities of our vast solar system.