Indian Scientists and Mumbai University Researchers Explain the Gannon Superstorm of May 2024

The Gannon Superstorm, a powerful solar event that impacted Earth in May 2024, has been explained by Indian scientists, including researchers from Mumbai University. The storm, the most intense in twenty years, saw the university's researchers make a significant contribution to global space research.

The study, which appeared in *The Astrophysical Journal Letters*, details how multiple substantial solar eruptions occurred in rapid succession on the Sun during May 2024. These eruptions led to the creation of a massive magnetic reconnection region in space. This region was approximately 1.3 million kilometers in size, about 100 times the size of Earth.

This immense reconnection zone amplified the intensity of the solar storm as it reached Earth. The storm significantly affected satellite operations, communication networks, and Earth's magnetic field. Data collected jointly by India’s Aditya-L1 mission and six NASA spacecraft enabled the discovery. Dr. Ankush Bhaskar from ISRO’s Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre and his student, Shibitosh Biswas, spearheaded the research.

Professor Anil Raghav from Mumbai University provided crucial guidance for the study. PhD students Ajay Kumar and Kalpesh Ghag made substantial contributions to the analysis and interpretation of the data with his support. This collaborative effort has elevated India's standing in the international scientific community. The researchers have also expressed interest in expanding international scientific cooperation in the future.

This breakthrough, which highlights the growing capabilities of Indian space science research, represents a major achievement for both India and Mumbai University. Mumbai University has recognized the research as a source of great pride for the institution.