New Delhi, May 19 -- A colossal solar storm struck Earth 14,300 years ago, making it the most powerful event of its kind ever detected, according to a new study. The discovery pushes back the known limits of solar activity and raises fresh questions about the risks posed by such space weather to modern infrastructure.

The storm, which occurred around 12,350 BC during the final stages of the last Ice Age, left a distinct spike in atmospheric radiocarbon levels - an isotopic signature preserved in ancient tree rings. Until recently, scientists had lacked the tools to accurately gauge the strength of such ancient solar events. But with the help of a new model, researchers have now confirmed the true intensity of the prehistoric event.

Res...