The sun has discharged a massive flare, the strongest solar eruption so far this year, scientists said. The powerful flare happened Sunday and erupted on the side of the sun that was not facing Earth. While the planet was not hit with radiation, space weather forecasters say the solar blast briefly disrupted high-frequency radio signals. Solar outbursts that are directed at Earth can affect communications systems and electric grids and also produce colorful auroras. The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) said radiation from the latest flare may stream toward two of its spacecraft, including the Spitzer Space Telescope. Engineers have the option to put them in safe mode to protect instruments from excessive radiation.
