Question: How would a solar flare affect all satellites currently above Earth?

Paul Higgins answered on 14 Nov 2012:

Solar flares launch particles (mostly protons and electrons) away from the Sun along magnetic field lines at near the speed of light. If a satellite happens to be on one of these magnetic field lines, connected to the flare, it may get hit with a barrage of particles. This can cause damage to instruments and also causes “charging”, where part of the satellite builds up an electric charge, like when you rub a balloon on your head and your hair stands up. This can damage the satellite if the charge is too strong and electrons jump from one part to another in a surge- like when you see a spark when you plug in your laptop.