Dear RHESSI Collaborators,
Solar activity is at a high level. A fourth X-class event (an X1.2 flare on 13-May-2013 at 01:48) has been released by NOAA 11748, which is now designated as a having a beta-gamma-delta/Eki configuration. NOAA 11748 shows evidence of continuing flux emergence, including the appearance of a new positive spot to the north-east of the delta spot. The opposite polarities within the delta spot appear to be separating somewhat, while there is evidence of shearing motions along its eastern penumbral boundary. The most recent X-class event is of a lower magnitude than the previous one and is spaced more greatly in time than the previous two (~24 hours versus ~9 hours). However, the new continued flux emergence and shearing motions may result in further instability within the region. The Great Flare Watch will remain in effect for at least the next 24 hours.
The position of NOAA 11748 on 15-May-2013 at 18:00 UT is:
N11E53, ( -746", 207" )
See http://www.SolarMonitor.org for images and http://solar.physics.montana.edu/max_millennium/ops/observing.shtml for a description of the current Max Millennium Observing Plan.
Regards,
Paul A. Higgins (Trinity College Dublin / LMSAL)
mmmotd@solar.physics.montana.edu