NASA's SDO Observes a Cinco de Mayo Solar Flare
- Written by:
- Karen Fox
- Produced by:
- Scott Wiessinger
- View full credits
This flare is classified as an X2.7-class flare. X-class denotes the most intense flares, while the number provides more information about its strength. An X2 is twice as intense as an X1, an X3 is three times as intense, etc.

NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory captured these images of a solar flare – as seen in the bright flash on the left – on May 5, 2015. Each image shows a different wavelength of extreme ultraviolet light that highlights a different temperature of material on the sun. By comparing different images, scientists can better understand the movement of solar matter and energy during a flare. From left to right, the wavelengths are: visible light, 171 angstroms, 304 angstroms, 193 angstroms and 131 angstroms. Each wavelength has been colorized.
Credit: NASA/GSFC/SDO

NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory captured these images of a solar flare – as seen in the bright flash on the left – on May 5, 2015. Each image shows a different wavelength of extreme ultraviolet light that highlights a different temperature of material on the sun. By comparing different images, scientists can better understand the movement of solar matter and energy during a flare. From left to right, the wavelengths are: visible light, 171 angstroms, 304 angstroms, 193 angstroms and 131 angstroms. Each wavelength has been colorized. Unlabeled.
Credit: NASA/GSFC/SDO
For More Information
See http://www.nasa.gov/feature/goddard/nasas-sdo-observes-cinco-de-mayo-solar-flare
Credits
Please give credit for this item to:
NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center. However, each image should be credited as indicated above.
Writer
- Karen Fox (ADNET) [Lead]
Producer
- Scott Wiessinger (KBRwyle) [Lead]