AI tool observes solar active regions to advance warnings of space weather
Phys.org
February 19, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
A groundbreaking AI tool developed by Southwest Research Institute (SwRI) and the National Science Foundation's National Center for Atmospheric Research (NSF-NCAR) is revolutionizing space weather forecasting. Unlike current systems that provide warnings only hours in advance, this new tool offers a significant leap forward by predicting solar activity weeks ahead. This advancement could allow agencies, industries, and astronauts to better prepare for and mitigate the impacts of space weather events, such as geomagnetic storms and solar flares.
Space weather refers to conditions in Earth's space environment driven by solar activity, including solar flares, coronal mass ejections, and high-speed solar winds. These phenomena can disrupt GPS systems, damage power grids, and pose risks to satellite operations and astronaut safety. The AI tool works by analyzing images of the Sun's surface to identify and track active regions, which are areas of intense magnetic activity that often precede major space weather events.
By observing these active regions, the AI system can predict when and where solar eruptions might occur, providing critical lead time for mitigation efforts. This is particularly important for sectors like satellite operations, power grid management, and space exploration, where even a few days' notice can make a significant difference in avoiding or minimizing damage. The tool's ability to forecast weeks in advance
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Originally published on Phys.org on 2/19/2026