2013 is kicking off to a great start as far as our star is concerned, not only has it absoluetly erupted in spots compared to 2012, but now we have one of the largest spots for some considerable time rotating into view over the limb. It's a monster - currently 4 times larger than planet Earth. The 2 sunspots that make up this active region are connected by a canopy of strong magnetic fields, which are presently crackling with low-level C-flares. Much stronger eruptions are possible. NOAA forecasters estimate a 40% chance of M-class flares and a 5% chance of X-flares during the next 24 hours.