Solar Watch — September 23, 2026 | 18:00 UTC

☀ Helios Solar Watch · 2026-09-23 16:00 UTC
QUIET

Solar activity is transitioning from quiet to unsettled as Kp-index levels are forecast to climb into the 4-range over the next 24 hours. While currently stable, the increasing complexity of active regions warrants closer monitoring for potential impulsive activity.

HMI Continuum Intensity

Visible light · 9 active regions

SUVI 304 — Extreme UV

Extreme UV · 304 Å

Kp Index
0.7
5 or above = storm

Geomagnetic
G0
24 h max: G0

X-Ray
A/B
quiet


⚠ Kp 20 possible · 4 more below
Next 24 h

Expect a gradual increase in geomagnetic activity, with the planetary K-index likely reaching 4.33 by late today or early tomorrow.

more

While no major storming is currently predicted, the transition to unsettled conditions may create minor fluctuations for sensitive high-frequency communication systems.

🌌 Aurora

Aurora visibility is currently restricted to high latitudes.

more

Given the forecast peak of Kp 4, observers at high-latitude locations (such as northern Canada or Scandinavia) may have a marginal opportunity to view displays, but mid-latitude observers are unlikely to see activity.

👁 Watch for

Monitor for any M-class flare activity, as the 55% probability suggests the current active regions possess enough complexity to produce more energetic bursts in the coming hours.

▸ Detailed readings

Radio blackout
 R0
(24 h max R0)
Radiation
 S0
(24 h max S0)
F10.7
 106.0
sfu

Region Location Class Flares C/M/X
AR4541 S05W69 Cro/B 0/0/0
AR4535 N12E35 Cro/B 1/0/0
AR4539 S09E13 Dso/B 0/0/0
AR4536 N02W26 Dsi/B 0/0/0
AR4533 S14E23 Hsx/A 0/0/0
AR4538 N11W36 Dai/B 0/0/0
AR4537 N07W40 Dai/B 1/0/0
AR4540 S13W62 Bxo/B 0/0/0
AR4534 N11W48 Dai/B 0/0/0
NOAA messages
2026-09-21 18:32  Kp 20 possible (WATA20)
2026-09-16 05:38  Kp 4 expected (WARK04)
2026-09-16 00:34  Kp 4 reached (ALTK04)
2026-09-15 18:56  Kp 5 (G1) expected (WARK05)
2026-09-14 11:03  Electron flux F3 reached (ALTEF3)


Helios Observer · Data: NOAA SWPC · updated every 12 h