A solar particle event (SPE), also known as a solar energetic particle event or solar radiation storm, is a solar phenomenon that occurs when particles emitted by the Sun, mostly protons, become accelerated either in the Sun's atmosphere during a solar flare or in interplanetary space by a coronal mass ejection shock. Other nuclei such as helium and HZE ions may also be accelerated. These particles can penetrate the Earth's magnetic field and cause partial ionization of the ionosphere. Energetic protons are a significant radiation hazard to spacecraft and astronauts.
A solar particle event affects computers at the Toronto Stock Exchange, forcing a halt to trading.
On August 16, in the year 1989, A solar particle event affects computers at the Toronto Stock Exchange, forcing a halt to trading. This event is recorded as a Historical Events event in the history of August 16, one of 428 recorded events on this date across all of history.
Key Facts
- This event took place on August 16, 1989 (AD era).
- It is categorised as a Historical Events event in recorded history.
- Referenced in 2 Wikipedia articles.
- Wikipedia source last updated on 21 January 2026.
On This Date in History 428
This article draws on content from Wikipedia, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
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1906
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1900
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1896
130 years ago
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1891
135 years ago
The Basilica of San Sebastian, Manila, the first all-steel church in Asia, is officially inaugurated and blessed.
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1876
150 years ago
Richard Wagner's Siegfried, the penultimate opera in his Ring cycle, is premiered at the Bayreuth Festspielhaus.
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1870
Franco-Prussian War: The Battle of Mars-la-Tour is fought, resulting in a Prussian victory.
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