**BREAKING: FACT CHECK — "Total Solar Eclipse to Cause 5G Network Blackout and Radioactive Plasma Rain"**
BREAKING: FACT CHECK — “Total Solar Eclipse to Cause 5G Network Blackout and Radioactive Plasma Rain”
Rumor: A viral post circulating on Telegram and TikTok claims that the upcoming total solar eclipse on April 8 will trigger a “catastrophic 5G network blackout” and release “radioactive plasma rain” from the sun’s corona that will harm anyone outdoors for longer than 15 minutes.
Real or Fake? FAKE.
What’s actually happening: This is a classic example of “science-scary” misinformation. The post cherry-picks real terms (solar corona, plasma, radio interference) and bolts on false, fear-mongering consequences. Here’s the reality:
- 5G networks: Solar eclipses have zero effect on terrestrial mobile networks. The only possible signal issue is a temporary spike in network usage as millions of people try to livestream the event—that’s congestion, not a blackout.
- “Radioactive plasma rain”: The sun’s corona is extremely hot (millions of degrees) but it is not “radioactive.” Plasma from the sun does not “rain down” during an eclipse—Earth’s magnetic field and atmosphere protect us. The corona is visible precisely because the moon blocks the sun’s bright surface, not because it’s releasing dangerous material.
- Danger to humans: It is safe to view an eclipse only with proper eye protection (ISO 12312-2 solar glasses) to prevent retinal damage from direct sunlight. The eclipse itself does not create new harmful radiation on Earth.
Bottom Line: Enjoy the eclipse safely with certified glasses. Your phone will work fine. And no, you will not get rained on by plasma. Share this to stop the fear-spiral. ✅