Solar magnetic storms are cyclical events that reach a violent peak approximately every 11 years. During these peaks, the sun’s magnetic poles reverse, expelling billions of tons of magnetically charged matter into the solar system. While we’ve been fortunate that most of these storms haven’t collided with Earth, scientists warn that our luck won’t last forever.
In 2025, we’re due for a solar storm peak, and its potential impact is significant:
- Mass Power Cuts: The storm threatens widespread havoc, including mass power cuts.
- Communication Blackouts: Trillions of dollars in damage could occur due to communications blackouts.
- Satellite Vulnerability: Satellites orbiting Earth could be affected, disrupting TV, military, and civil communications.
While the probability of an event like the 1859 Carrington Event is low (around 2-3%), the consequences would be catastrophic. Back then, auroras were visible as far south as Cuba and Australia, telegraph lines blew out, and spontaneous fires occurred. Today, with our extensive electrical infrastructure, the impact could be even more severe—potentially leaving entire continents without power.
No comments:
Post a Comment